Nearly forgotten because his career and accomplishments have often been misinterpreted, David Dixon Porter takes his rightful place as the foremost naval hero of the Civil War in this richly detailed, entertaining history. Though Porter rose faster through the ranks, commanded more men and ships, won more victories, and was awarded more Congressional votes of thanks than any other officer in the U.S. Navy, historians have been influenced by his own postwar accounts, which were flawed by an unquenchable ego, thin skin, and a burning desire to vindicate his equally controversial father, David Porter, a naval hero in the War of 1812.

Based on the correspondence and journals of his allies and enemies, both military and political, as well as official documents and Porter's great volume of writings, noted historian Chester Hearn sets the record straight on the firebrand hero of New Orleans, Vicksburg, and Fort Fisher, whose unique tactics and techniques rank among the most imaginative and successful in naval history. On board Porter's flagship readers witness daring, brilliant attacks against the punishing batteries at Vicksburg and Fisher and costly failures at Steele's Bayou and Red River. They are present at the critical strategy meetings with Sherman and Grant, and a thrilling chase up and down the coast of South America after Semmes on the CSS Sumter.

A talented fighter and colorful personality with a marvelous sense of humor, Porter earned respect and friendship from the likes of Lincoln, Grant, and Sherman, but drew the ire of political generals like Butler, Banks, and McClernand. This book provides a fresh perspective on Porter's potent mix of energy, ambition, courage, and creativity with rash behavior, paranoia, and taste for intrigue. It is a penetrating and highly readable portrait.

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