Thanks for the explanation, Ken. That certainly does give perspective into the attitudes of the soldiers, and the nature of battle in the western theater. Apparantly, there was a complex mix of cultures--all of whom had reasons (however justified, exaggerated, or distorted) to desire 'a pound of flesh' and end the war sooner than later.

Obviously, I am new to this facet of history...and upon relection, wonder why my college history books are so inadequate in this regard. It seems much of this campaign has been ignored or forgotten.

Perhaps I should give an brief accounting for my personal motivation to illuminate this area of study (I will attempt to keep this relevant, and not a bore to read): About a month ago, it was discovered that a great-uncle, that I never knew existed (my father's mother's mother's older brother), had joined the 14th Kansas Cavalry (company I) and died (or was killed) on July 10th, 1864. He is buried in Little Rock, AR. Curiosity is not one of my better virtues, it seems, and I have sought to discover what happened to him; how he lived and died. Apparantly, he had written a journal of his adventures, however, only my uncle is still alive to remember ever seeing it, and doesn't remember anything about it, having only glanced over it as a young boy, and is now about 80 years old. Unfortunately, the book itself has been lost since the early 1960's, most likely vanishing in the confusion when my grand parents retired and moved to California (at least that is how it has been explained to me). Every day I lament the loss of this historical record.

When I first read about 'Boggy Depot' (or is it 'middle boggy'...please forgive my ignorance) I was appalled. I have since discovered, to my relief, that his company would not have been at this place, according to one record. Everything else I have read about the 14th Kansas Cavalry has been highly commendable...that sort of butchery would seem out of character.

Thanks again for your insight.