Daring and Suffering: A History of the Great Railroad Adventure
by William Pittenger

Name: Daring and Suffering: A History of the Great Railroad Adventure
Author: William Pittenger

In April 1862, during the American Civil War, 22 Union spies embarked on a daring mission to sabotage the Western and Atlantic Railroad, a vital supply line for the Confederate army. Led by civilian James J. Andrews, the raiders seized a train, The General, and set out to destroy bridges and tracks. However, Confederate forces quickly gave chase, both on foot and by locomotive, leading to a thrilling pursuit and capture. This book, written by an eyewitness, provides a detailed account of the Great Locomotive Chase, offering insights into the strategies, bravery, and consequences of this remarkable event.

'Daring and Suffering: A History of the Great Railroad Adventure' Summary

The Great Locomotive Chase, an audacious military raid conducted by Union spies in April 1862, is recounted in this firsthand account written just a year after the event. Led by civilian James J. Andrews, the Union raiders seized a train, The General, in Big Shanty, Georgia, with the aim of disrupting the Western and Atlantic Railroad, a vital supply route for the Confederate army. However, Confederate forces swiftly pursued, both on foot and by locomotive, leading to a high-stakes chase and eventual capture of the raiders. The book chronicles the planning, execution, and aftermath of the daring mission, shedding light on the ingenuity, courage, and consequences that unfolded during this pivotal episode of the American Civil War.