1812: Rivers of War
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| Author | Eric Flint |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre(s) | Alternate History |
| Publisher | Del Rey |
| Released | 2005 |
| Media Type | Print (Hardcover & Paperback) |
| Pages | 528 (softcover edition) |
| ISBN | 0-345-46568-7 (softcover edition) |
| Preceded by | None |
| Followed by | 1824: The Arkansas War |
1812: The Rivers of War is a 2005 alternate history novel by American writer Eric Flint.
Contents |
[edit] Summary
The story, most of which takes place in 1814, centers around an alternate historical version of the War of 1812. The point of departure is at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend, where Sam Houston, who was seriously injured in real history, sustains only a minor injury and is able to continue fighting. This leads to many changes down the line, culminating in the formation of the Confederacy of the Arkansas.
[edit] Themes
Much of the novel, like many of Eric Flint's novels, focuses on the motivations of those involved in warfare. General Robert Ross, is a viewpoint character in the novel, and much time is devoted to his place as a "gentleman soldier", leading the English forces.
Another strong theme in the book is that of Indian rights. During the early part of the 19th century, westward expansion was squeezing the Cherokee and other nations out of lands they'd occupied for centuries. In the novel, the characters all seem to have a sense of inevitability about the whole affair, and know the time to preserve what they have is limited.
[edit] Historical Figures Appearing in the Novel
- Sam Houston
- General Robert Ross
- Andrew Jackson
- Winfield Scott
- Major Ridge
- James Madison
- James Monroe
