'Our Union Soldier's Four Wars 1840-1863' Chronicled in New Book

The Seminole War, the Mexican War, the California Indian Wars, and the Civil War were the pivotal conflicts that forged the United States into the nation that it is today. By delving into his family's past, in particular an ancestor who served in the violent yet critical decades encompassing these American wars, author David William Olien has created a unique account of a Federal soldier's distinguished experience in nearly forgotten battlefields throughout the nation, a recollection of Our Union Soldier's Four Wars 1840-1863.

What began as an attempt to learn about the service of a family ancestor lost in the Civil War became an exciting journey following him through two decades and a half of some of the most important years in America's history. Irish Immigrant Peter Gregory Curry was one of the few soldiers who served his country through one of the Florida Seminole Wars, and the Mexican war before serving as one of the few American soldiers sent to patrol Gold Rush California and finally the Civil War.

Olien's family had no memory or record of their ancestor's extraordinary life of adventure until the author took his research to the military section of the Federal archives in Washington. With the wide variety of sources made available to him, Olien was able to retell the life of a true soldier, his amazing life of action at the front lines of numerous battles, and his involvement in historic events. The author's exploration of America's unsung history even unveiled proof of a previously unknown massacre of hundreds of Native Americans in California in 1850. This account is exciting yet poignant, showing the/ harsh realities faced by those who fought for their nation during those turbulent times, as exemplified by a haunting photograph taken by the Union soldier for his wife and children before he went off to his final war. This faded image is the only trace of him left after 150 years.

Olien's emotional and action-packed account will come as a boon to readers interested in accounts of 19th century America, American history in general, and the Civil War as well. Moreover, the author also details the research methods he used to chronicle his ancestor's life, which can be of use to readers who wish to learn the exploits of their forefathers who served in America's past conflicts in the 19th century.

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About the Author
David William Olien has studied the Civil War for half a century, beginning with a journey with his parents to Gettysburg National Battlefield during the nation's Civil War Commemoration in 1861. He is retired from a career in government and higher education.

Our Union Soldier's Four Wars 1840-1863 * by David William Olien
The Story of Recovering One Family's Lost Billy Yank
Publication Date: 7/19/2013
Trade Paperback; $19.99; 205 pages; 978-1-4836-6407-1
Trade Hardback; $29.99; 205 pages; 978-1-4836-6408-8
eBook; $3.99; 978-1-4836-6409-5

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