5 out of 5 stars *****
A brief background about Andrew Jackson's beginnings and his perseverance in most difficult situations preludes the Battle of New Orleans. This city is crucial for control of the territory west of the Mississippi River and the wealth such a port provides via trade from Northern and Midwestern regions in North America. If the British capture the city, America could easily collapse as a new country. The British destruction of Washington D.C. scatters the United States government into survival mode. Recent military victories at Fort Henry and Pensacola bolster US spirits but the battles are without reinforcements from a centralized government and a Secretary of War, James Monroe, who recently adds that hat to his Secretary of State collection, an onus he accepts from President Madison due to the casualties of war.
The author narrates this well-written account with excitement and energy. Brian Kilmeade provides readers with his passion for the subject. He acquaints his audience with the characteristics that set Andrew Jackson apart from most of his contemporaries.
The Battle of New Orleans showcases Jackson's talent as a tactician, leader, and inspiration to those who follow and fight with him. The man makes enemies as easily as he makes decisions and he is a decisive individual who assesses men, animals, terrain, and his enemy better than most. Kilmeade describes the genius behind events, how outnumbered and over-matched people come together to repulse the mighty British Navy and sophisticated, seasoned soldiers in the climax. This historical turning point in America's story exists because of a sense of duty and drive of one man, General Andrew Jackson.
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