"Well-crafted and concise, this book is both a good basic survey of USCT history and a useful study of Lincoln's status among his black troops."—Choice
"[Smith] has written a riveting, often neglected half of this transformative project. It’s a must read for anyone interested in African American soldiers, Abraham Lincoln, and the Civil War."—The Civil War Book Review
"John David Smith has written an excellent book on a major topic, and it deserves a wide reading."—Civil War News
“A fine, concise exploration of the formation, engagement, sacrifices, and contributions of the USCT during the Civil War, rich with primary source material and alive with the voices of those who participated in this transformative development in American history.”—Elizabeth D. Leonard, author of Men of Color to Arms! Black Soldiers, Indian Wars, and the Quest for Equality
“John David Smith, the preeminent expert on African American troops in the Civil War, has produced a deeply insightful study. Herein Smith shows clearly and conclusively that Abraham Lincoln made black soldiers the very linchpin of his decisions for winning the war, saving the Union, destroying slavery, and leading America toward the hope of racial equality.”—T. Michael Parrish, Baylor University
“Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation not only freed the slaves but also armed African American men. Focusing on the more neglected half of this transformative project, Smith examines Lincoln’s journey from opponent of the enlistment of black soldiers to a soldier’s champion, recounts blacks’ recruitment and mobilization, and analyzes the evolution of their roles from manual laborers to garrison troops, and finally to fighting men. Smith tells this large and significant story clearly, economically, and persuasively.”—James L. Roark, Emory University
"Smith succeeds in his goal of crafting a concise, readable survey of a significant aspect of the American Civil War. His book deserves to enjoy many classroom adoptions." —Allan Peskin, History: Reviews of New Books
"[The book] is an excellent read for anyone who wants to see how Grant evolved as a commander, and how a Civil War army was commanded."—Timothy Smith, StrategyPage