"Downright Fighting": The Story of Cowpens

"Downright Fighting: The Story of Cowpens" by Thomas J. Fleming is a historical account written in the late 20th century. The book narrates the gripping events surrounding the Battle of Cowpens, which is considered one of the pivotal conflicts during the American Revolutionary War. It highlights the contrasting figures of American General Daniel Morgan and British Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton, focusing on their movements and decisions leading up to this significant encounter. The opening of the book sets the stage for the events leading to the Battle of Cowpens, detailing the harsh conditions faced by Morgan's army as they prepared to confront Tarleton’s formidable British Legion. As Morgan's men huddle around campfires and gear up for a conflict, the narrative introduces key characters and their motivations, linking the fight to the broader context of the war and the regional tensions in South Carolina. The text vividly portrays not just the military aspects but also the personal stakes for the soldiers involved, and the emotional weight they carried, setting the foundation for a dramatic and decisive confrontation.