A Frenchman Fights For the Union by Jeffrey H. Smith Ph.D.

Jeffrey Smith is the great-great grandson of Victor Vifquain, the subject of this fascinating account of a French immigrant who served in the 97th Illinois Infantry Regiment during the Civil War. This well-written narrative details soldier Vifquain’s exploits during the war to include his involvement in a plot to kidnap Jefferson Davis from Richmond and his experiences with the 97th Infantry during the Vicksburg and Mobile Campaigns. This is a relatively short narrative that provides an insightful and exciting overview of a young man new to America whose patriotism led him to follow in the footsteps of La Fayette in fighting for freedom.