Renowned historian David L. Miller at the Vicksburg National Military Park

“Vicksburg: Grant’s Campaign that Broke the Confederacy”  by Donald L. Miller tells the story of General Ulysses S. Grant’s year-long campaign in Mississippi, a key to the Union victory in the Civil War.

Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 10 a.m. the Vicksburg National Military Park, 3201 Clay St., will host Miller as he gives a presentation followed by a book signing.

“His presentation will be a little bit about his book, but he’ll also be speaking about his research he’s done on General Grant and his campaign for Vicksburg,” said Scott Babinowich, chief of interpretation at the park. “This should be a fun event since it’s not every day you get to connect with a very prominent historical author that’s been doing current research on the campaign for Vicksburg.

“So, hopefully, this allows us to connect more people to the history, but also really hit on the fact that we are still learning about this campaign over 150 years later.”

Miller’s book on the fight for Vicksburg is not his first. A renowned historian and author, he has written numerous books on as subjects as diverse as cities, such as Manhattan and Chicago, the history of coal mining and World War II. He has also served as a consultant and writer of historical documentaries and, reportedly, is working on a project with HBO. Among his published works are “The Story of World War II,” “Masters of the Air” and “City of the Century.” 

“I hope people get a chance to connect meaningfully to their local history and their story,” Babinowich said. “The best way to do that is to talk to someone that’s been doing active research on it but is also able to engage on a more literary perspective.”

The event, held in the auditorium of the park’s visitor center, is free with admission and is open to history buffs of all ages. For more information, call the Vicksburg National Military Park at 601-636-0583.