Forty-Six Years in the Army

"Forty-Six Years in the Army" by John McAllister Schofield is a historical account written during the late 19th century. This memoir chronicles Schofield's extensive military career, reflecting on his experiences and the events of the American Civil War, as well as his observations on military leadership and education. The book serves as Schofield's contribution to history, aiming to provide impartial insights for future historians, while also detailing significant personal moments and interactions with notable military figures of his time. The opening of the work introduces Schofield's background, revealing his early life, academic journey at West Point, and the challenges he faced, including a dismissal from the Academy that he successfully appealed. He recounts significant influences and friendships with prominent figures such as Robert E. Lee and future Civil War generals while highlighting the critical lessons learned during his military training. The narrative sets the stage for Schofield's reflections on warfare, leadership, and the role of officers in the army, establishing a foundation for his experiences that will unfold in the subsequent chapters.