"These essays by some of the leading historians in the field mark a major step toward a fuller understanding of the campaign. This volume and the sequels to follow will join the roster of essential titles on McClellan's well conceived but eventually disappointing drive against Richmond."—Gary W. Gallagher
George B. McClellan got closer to Richmond than any previous Union general by a bold amphibious landing, but lost his advantage due to his own indecision and Robert E. Lee's superior generalship. The essays in this volume on the campaign include ones by Steven E. Woodworth, Richard A. Sauers, Kevin C. Ruffner, Richard J. Sommers, Edwin C. Bearss, and William J. Miller.