Henry W. Thurston

“ The evolution of the sturdy old soldier and patriotic American is lovingly traced by Major-General O. O. Howard. Here, as in the life of Jackson, the man himself is introduced to us and we share his tent. The contrast between the two men is striking. One is impetuous, intolerant, radical, the other is poised, generous, and conservative. ”

“ We are told that when, in 1850, the President was approached by Southern leaders to get him to join in their plan to, set up a southern confederacy with him as President, Taylor replied with true Jacksonian vigor and effectiveness that he would put down such an attempt "with Southern volunteers." In General Howard's opinion, this answer postponed the "irrepressible conflict" ten years and made the ultimate success of the Union cause possible. ”