"Mr Lincoln's High-Tech War" is a good summary of some of the major technological improvements occurring during the Civil War. Though a valuable book, it is rather like a survey course, a great deal of details, but not a lot of depth. Many of the technological improvements discussed here warrant lengthy tomes on their own (many have been written) in particular weapon inventions (Springfield repeaters, new breechloading rifles), the invention of the Ironclads and the Hunley, the very first submarine, all are covered better and in more depth in other books. Also, though the use of the railroad and the invention of Morse Code are talked about, and an example given (Chattanooga relief) I felt it was underserved. In addition, it might have been worth mentioning more about technology that didn't change (medicine) and the refusal of people (especially generals) to make use of these new technologies.

"Mr. Lincoln's High-Tech War" was a good survey book, one I would proudly include on my Civil War bookcase, but should only be used as a jumping off point for further discussion of the various technologies used and the technological inventions being made during the Civil War. ( )

"Mr Lincoln's High-Tech War" is a good summary of some of the major technological improvements occurring during the Civil War. Though a valuable book, it is rather like a survey course, a great deal of details, but not a lot of depth. Many of the technological improvements discussed here warrant lengthy tomes on their own (many have been written) in particular weapon inventions (Springfield repeaters, new breechloading rifles), the invention of the Ironclads and the Hunley, the very first submarine, all are covered better and in more depth in other books. Also, though the use of the railroad and the invention of Morse Code are talked about, and an example given (Chattanooga relief) I felt it was underserved. In addition, it might have been worth mentioning more about technology that didn't change (medicine) and the refusal of people (especially generals) to make use of these new technologies.

"Mr. Lincoln's High-Tech War" was a good survey book, one I would proudly include on my Civil War bookcase, but should only be used as a jumping off point for further discussion of the various technologies used and the technological inventions being made during the Civil War. ( )

"Mr Lincoln's High-Tech War" is a good summary of some of the major technological improvements occurring during the Civil War. Though a valuable book, it is rather like a survey course, a great deal of details, but not a lot of depth. Many of the technological improvements discussed here warrant lengthy tomes on their own (many have been written) in particular weapon inventions (Springfield repeaters, new breechloading rifles), the invention of the Ironclads and the Hunley, the very first submarine, all are covered better and in more depth in other books. Also, though the use of the railroad and the invention of Morse Code are talked about, and an example given (Chattanooga relief) I felt it was underserved. In addition, it might have been worth mentioning more about technology that didn't change (medicine) and the refusal of people (especially generals) to make use of these new technologies.

"Mr. Lincoln's High-Tech War" was a good survey book, one I would proudly include on my Civil War bookcase, but should only be used as a jumping off point for further discussion of the various technologies used and the technological inventions being made during the Civil War. ( )

Allen, Thomas B. and Roger MacBride Allen. Mr. Lincoln’s High Tech War. 2009. 144 pp. $18.95. National Geographic. 978-1-4263-0380-7. Ages 10-15
A chronological history of the Civil War from the roots of the conflict to its end and the death of Abraham Lincoln. The story focuses on the ways in which technology was used by Lincoln to defeat the South and change the face of modern warfare forever. Some ideas explored are the use of telegrams, railroads, ironclad warships, hot air balloons, and rapid-fire weapons. Black and white photos and diagrams clarify concepts without distracting. Helpful sidebars explain important concepts or feature timelines of important events, and an index and list of helpful websites are included. The history is very well-researched and offers a balanced perspective on Lincoln’s use of technologies which gave rise to the concept of total war. A good addition for students interested in history, war, technology, or biography. Recommended. Ages 10-15. ( )

This is a young adult book but I loved the way they presented the history of the Civil War, not by long lists of battles and generals (although both are mentioned, often). Instead the entire war is covered by talking about the new technologies that were either used or developed during the war. Iron clad ships, telegraphs, side-loading rifles, and railroads are the highlights but there are a variety of other things that came into being during this long conflict.

Since it is a YA book its a pretty quick read and well written to boot. ( )