Freemon's book is a study of the medical care on both sides of the American Civil War. Freemon is uniquely positioned to write a historic study of medical care; he has both an MD and a PhD in history. His work Microbes and Minie Balls (CH, Jul'93) was an award-winning bibliography of Civil War medicine. Gangrene and Glory is very balanced in its treatment of North and South. Chapters alternate between the Federal and the Confederate situation during various campaigns. In addition to extensive scholarly coverage each chapter includes anecdotes dealing with individuals: some are physicians, some nurses, and many are wounded soldiers. The book serves once again to dispel the Hollywood image of the Civil War operation as one done without anesthesia but with alcohol. Although alcohol was used, it was used as a tonic. Perhaps most interesting is Freemon's discussion of the use of quinine by the armies. The author presents a picture of a profession undergoing stress and how it responded. Particularly noteworthy is his discussion of Civil War nurses. Very good glossary of terms. Highly recommended for all levels. I. Cohen; formerly, Illinois State University