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by Brian Lane Herder.
Softcover (7.25×9.75 inches). 96 pages. 2025.
Subtitle: Dawn of an American Empire
This Campaign volume covers the naval battle and much more, including the political and occupation maneuvers to defeat the Spanish and a Filipino insurgency that eliminated most of the Spanish forces outside Manila (Philippines) and became a third power in a three-sided battle of wills for control of the Spanish colony. Also noted are the Cuban naval battle, the occupation and annexation of Guam, and a variety of other island grabs in the Pacific.
It’s quite well told, especially the battle but also the insurgency. In the naval battle, the US fleet under Commodore Dewey fired 5,859 shells and recorded 145 hits on Spanish warships (p57). This excludes shots fired at Spanish coastal forts and batteries.
Amazingly, Spanish law mandated the death penalty for any Spanish commander who surrendered without a fight. Dewey, anxious to capture Manila and the Philippines, secretly made a deal with the Spanish governor to stage a “mock” battle with lots of firing and no casualties to satisfy Spanish law. Alas, they forgot to tell their sailors and soldiers, who started to fire like a real battle. Casualties were low by the time the “battle” was all over.
The same thing happened in Guam. A lot of fire and smoke, but only mirrors as Spanish pride was met.
The booklet contains 41 black and white photos, six color photos, five black and white illustrations, 10 color illustrations, 10 color maps, three color two-page action illustrations, and one color 3D map.
Nicely done.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
