Raphael Semmes (1) (1809–1877)

Semmes is a good writer, when he is not disparaging his former enemies in the North. The description of tactical operations of a hybrid coal/wind powered ship (The Sumter) engaged in raiding Union commerce during the American Civil War is fascinating. He provides interesting descriptions of cruising in the Caribbean and along the South American coast, where he was able to capture or burn a number of Union commerce vessels. He also describes visits to foreign ports in the Caribbean and South show more America, where he attempts to negotiate permission to resupply his vessel, all while avoiding Union Navy ships seeking to capture or sink his ship.

However, the tone of arrogant defiance and disdain for Union military and political leadership grows wearying. Apparently, Semmes was still coming to terms with the Confederate loss in the war while writing these memoirs. I was only able to get through about a third of this (very long) memoir before giving up due to my annoyance with the tone. show less