Thank God for men like Jim Lewis! And for 14 year old Louis Nelson who volunteered to join & fight for the CSA with his master, one E. Oldham. Nelson served under Gen. Nathan B. Forrest.
In Gods and Generals, I really liked Jackson, so after reading the trilogy, I am reading a biography of Jackson. I like him... eccentricities and all... (though I don't find him that eccentric)
What I think gets overlooked on these threads is the simple fact that once the South decided to leave the Union, the South was "invaded." If I lived in Virginia at the time, and even if I did not agree with the politics of secession, I would have fought to protect my home.
There is a re-enactment campout complete with battles, suttlers, food, etc. at the J.E.B. Birthplace known as Laural Hill in Ararat VA. Sat. and Sun. this weekenend 10-4 and 10-5.
13th Annual Civil War Encampment & Reenactment JEB Stuart.org
One thing the battle guys do here is to shoot a period field artillery piece at barrels of water from 150 yards. Nice water explosions!