In State of Jones, the authors characterize John Bell Hood as "psychotically aggressive"? They cite the Battle of Franklin and his other command decisions. I don't agree with that at all. What do you guys think?
Given that pschosis is a mental disorder characterized by symptoms that indicate impaired contact with reality, was the attack on Franklin pschotically aggressive? The reported rage in Hood over the failure to stop Schofield at Spring Hill coupled with his own poor physical condition led to him ordering the assault with only two of his three corps, without most of his artillery and against the advice of Forrest and Cheatham amongst others. Facing the formidable defences at Franklin was this a momentary loss of touch with reality? Maybe.
He exercised poor judgment. Besides, military commanders are supposed to be aggressive. I think the authors of The State of Jones had a very poor grasp of military history.
Think of it. Grant and Lee both ordered attacks that went terribly. Just think of Picketts Charge and Cold Harbor. Naturally, they were far better commanders than Hood.
What do you guys think?
