A new whole-life biography of Custer that deals with his personal history as well as his military career.

The reader is introduced to a little-known side of Custer—a deeply personal side. George Custer grew up in an expanding young country and his early influences mirrored the times. Two aspects of this era dominate most works about him: the Civil War, and the war with the Indians, culminating in his death at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. When mentioned, if at all, his early life and years as a cadet at West Point are brief, and then only enough to set some background for discussion of the mystery of the Little Bighorn. This is the first Custer biography to focus on these lesser-known parts of his life in great detail.

The approach uses all of Custer’s known writings: letters; magazine articles; his book, My Life on the Plains; and his unfinished memoirs of the Civil War; along with materials and books by his wife, Elizabeth Custer; and reflections of others who knew him well.

The five chapters are Early Life (growing up and as a West Point cadet), The Civil War, The Indian Fighter, The Little Bighorn, and Conclusion. The theme of the book is not so much new historical information but the depth of his character development and lesser-known influences of his life. Custer draws together these elements in a succinct and accessible read.

The book also includes illustrations (primarily from Harper’s Weekly) and photos, such as Matthew Brady’s Civil War collection, to accompany the text.

Introduction
1. Early Years
2. The Civil War
3. The Indian Fighter
4. The Little Bighorn
5. Conclusion

"Ted Behncke and Gary Bloomfield remain faithful to the facts and enable the reader to better grasp the man as he was and the one he envisioned. Custer’s personalities, beliefs and actions, or lack thereof, weave through each chapter, amid a lively and readable writing style that interlaces quotes and sources within the text."

"This is a book worthy of review and discussion by maneuver commanders. The lessons brought forth regarding cultural differences, appreciation of enemy capabilities, force structure and political guidance are well covered."

"Co-authors Ted Behncke and Gary Bloomfield have created a revealing portrait of a complex soldier and his date with destiny."

"Behncke and Bloomfield reveal deep emotional and physical scars that Custer carried away from the Civil War and the Indian Wars. Their meticulous research and engrossing writing bring Custer to vivid life, particularly in his relationship with his wife Libby."

"Exceptional in comprehensiveness and presentation..."

"Their story is told here in a most exciting and interesting way. It is very hard to put down."

"This meticulous and engrossing history brings the George Armstrong Custer to vivid life especially his relationship with his wife Libby."