The Surrender of Santiago An Account of the Historic Surrender of Santiago to General Shafter, July 17, 1898 By: Frank Norris (1870-1902)
Frank Norris' "The Surrender of Santiago" offers a gripping and detailed account of a significant historical event, shedding light on the intriguing surrender of Santiago to General Shafter on July 17, 1898. Through his vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Norris successfully transports readers back to this pivotal moment in time, providing a multifaceted exploration of the circumstances leading up to the surrender. One of the book's standout qualities is Norris' ability to craft a narrative that combines historical accuracy with an engaging writing style. He masterfully balances the use of primary sources and firsthand testimony, enriching the story with authentic voices and experiences. This approach not only adds credibility to the events described but also adds depth and dimension to the characters involved. Norris goes beyond the surface-level historical facts, delving into the motivations, fears, and triumphs of both the American and Spanish soldiers. In addition, Norris expertly captures the atmosphere of tension and uncertainty that permeated Santiago leading up to the surrender. His meticulous attention to detail allows readers to visualize the battlefield, smell the gunpowder in the air, and feel the pulse of imminent victory. This palpable sense of immediacy creates a thrilling reading experience, drawing readers in and keeping them engaged throughout. Furthermore, Norris' ability to provide historical context is commendable. He situates the surrender within the broader context of the Spanish-American War, exploring the political and social dynamics that fueled the conflict. By weaving together military strategy, personal anecdotes, and larger geopolitical considerations, Norris ensures readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the surrender's significance, beyond mere battlefield tactics. However, some readers may find themselves longing for a more balanced perspective. Although Norris clearly sympathizes with the American forces, presenting their bravery and victories with great admiration, he tends to overlook the Spanish perspective. A more nuanced examination of both sides would have added another layer of complexity to the narrative. Despite this minor shortcoming, "The Surrender of Santiago" is an impressive work of historical non-fiction. Norris' powerful prose and meticulous attention to detail make this book an essential read for history enthusiasts, as well as those simply seeking a compelling account of a transformative moment in American and Spanish history. First Page: [Illustration] THE SURRENDER OF SANTIAGO AN ACCOUNT OF THE HISTORIC SURRENDER OF SANTIAGO TO GENERAL SHAFTER JULY 17, 1898 BY FRANK NORRIS SAN FRANCISCO PAUL ELDER AND COMPANY NINETEEN SEVENTEEN Copyright, 1913, 1917 by Otis F. Wood THE SURRENDER OF SANTIAGO For two days we had been at the headquarters of the Second Brigade (General McKibben's), so blissfully contented because at last we had a real wooden and tiled roof over our heads that even the tarantulas Archibald shook two of them from his blanket in one night had no terrors for us. The headquarters were in an abandoned country seat, a little six roomed villa, all on one floor, called the Hacienda San Pablo. To the left of us along the crest of hills, in a mighty crescent that reached almost to the sea, lay the army, panting from the effort of the first, second and third days of the month, resting on its arms, its eyes to its sights, Maxim, Hotchkiss and Krag Jorgenson held ready, alert, watchful, straining in the leash, waiting the expiration of the last truce that had now been on for twenty four hours. That night we sat up very late on the porch of the hacienda, singing "The Spanish Cavalier" if you will recollect the words, singularly appropriate "The Star Spangled Banner," and 'Tis a way we had at Caney, sir, 'Tis a way we had at Caney, sir, 'Tis a way we had at Caney, sir, To drive the Dons away, an adaptation by one of the General's aides, which had a great success... Continue reading book >>

The Surrender of Santiago An Account of the Historic Surrender of Santiago to General Shafter, July 17, 1898 By: Frank Norris (1870-1902)

Frank Norris' "The Surrender of Santiago" offers a gripping and detailed account of a significant historical event, shedding light on the intriguing surrender of Santiago to General Shafter on July 17, 1898. Through his vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Norris successfully transports readers back to this pivotal moment in time, providing a multifaceted exploration of the circumstances leading up to the surrender.

One of the book's standout qualities is Norris' ability to craft a narrative that combines historical accuracy with an engaging writing style. He masterfully balances the use of primary sources and firsthand testimony, enriching the story with authentic voices and experiences. This approach not only adds credibility to the events described but also adds depth and dimension to the characters involved. Norris goes beyond the surface-level historical facts, delving into the motivations, fears, and triumphs of both the American and Spanish soldiers.

In addition, Norris expertly captures the atmosphere of tension and uncertainty that permeated Santiago leading up to the surrender. His meticulous attention to detail allows readers to visualize the battlefield, smell the gunpowder in the air, and feel the pulse of imminent victory. This palpable sense of immediacy creates a thrilling reading experience, drawing readers in and keeping them engaged throughout.

Furthermore, Norris' ability to provide historical context is commendable. He situates the surrender within the broader context of the Spanish-American War, exploring the political and social dynamics that fueled the conflict. By weaving together military strategy, personal anecdotes, and larger geopolitical considerations, Norris ensures readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the surrender's significance, beyond mere battlefield tactics.

However, some readers may find themselves longing for a more balanced perspective. Although Norris clearly sympathizes with the American forces, presenting their bravery and victories with great admiration, he tends to overlook the Spanish perspective. A more nuanced examination of both sides would have added another layer of complexity to the narrative.

Despite this minor shortcoming, "The Surrender of Santiago" is an impressive work of historical non-fiction. Norris' powerful prose and meticulous attention to detail make this book an essential read for history enthusiasts, as well as those simply seeking a compelling account of a transformative moment in American and Spanish history.

First Page:

[Illustration]

THE SURRENDER OF SANTIAGO

AN ACCOUNT OF THE HISTORIC SURRENDER OF SANTIAGO TO GENERAL SHAFTER JULY 17, 1898

BY FRANK NORRIS

SAN FRANCISCO PAUL ELDER AND COMPANY NINETEEN SEVENTEEN

THE SURRENDER OF SANTIAGO

For two days we had been at the headquarters of the Second Brigade (General McKibben's), so blissfully contented because at last we had a real wooden and tiled roof over our heads that even the tarantulas Archibald shook two of them from his blanket in one night had no terrors for us.

The headquarters were in an abandoned country seat, a little six roomed villa, all on one floor, called the Hacienda San Pablo. To the left of us along the crest of hills, in a mighty crescent that reached almost to the sea, lay the army, panting from the effort of the first, second and third days of the month, resting on its arms, its eyes to its sights, Maxim, Hotchkiss and Krag Jorgenson held ready, alert, watchful, straining in the leash, waiting the expiration of the last truce that had now been on for twenty four hours.

That night we sat up very late on the porch of the hacienda, singing "The Spanish Cavalier" if you will recollect the words, singularly appropriate "The Star Spangled Banner," and

'Tis a way we had at Caney, sir, 'Tis a way we had at Caney, sir, 'Tis a way we had at Caney, sir, To drive the Dons away,

an adaptation by one of the General's aides, which had a great success... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
History
War stories

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