General Longstreet is one of the most controversial figures of the Civil War. Long criticized for his role at Gettysburg, historical opinion has begun to view him in a more favorable light. He was dependable, if not brilliant, a staunch fighter. Certainly Lee relied upon him most of all his officers. He acquitted himself bravely in many of the war"s bloodiest battles. And if his critics have been numerous his most stubborn defenders were always the men who served under him. Longstreet"s memoirs reflect the combative style of the old soldier. Their tremendous historical interest lies as much in the insight they afford into the general"s mind and character as in the factual account of the progress of the war. Though his command decisions may be questioned, none dispute his dedication and loyalty to the cause of the confederacy. As he says in his preface, "I yield to no one as a champion of the Southern soldier wherever he may have fought...and I do not think I shall be charged more now than in war time of overestimation the enemy." Honor to all!"