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Cochrane, John, 1813-1898 to unknown

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05028 Author/Creator: Cochrane, John, 1813-1898 Place Written: Harrison's Landing, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 3 July 1862 Pagination: Order a Copy

Says the Union army "is inadequate to the capture of Richmond. I have at no time thought that it was" able to do so. Written just after the Seven Days, as the Union forces begin to withdraw and the Peninsula campaign comes to an unsuccessful close. McClellan's attempt to take Richmond from the South has failed, even though his force greatly outnumbered the Confederates. Many historians argue that it was the trepidation of McClellan and some of his officers that caused the Union failure at Richmond. Cochrane's view is similar to those expressed by McClellan. Of the president, says "The country must make its greatest effort against mediation & the opponents of this administration who are beginning to emerge from their gloom as the shadow strikes us." Discusses his poor health and his hopes for re-election, possibly to Congress. Feels McClellan is "an able General I think and has so far saved the army from extermination." Addressed to "My dear judge." 2 black and white bust engravings of John Cochrane included.

Cochrane, John, 1813-1898
McClellan, George B., 1826-1885

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