The Principles of Moral and Political Philosophy.

PALEY, William [William Tecumseh Sherman].

$28,000.00

Item Number: 145971

New York: Collins, Keese, & Co, 1839.

Later edition of this classic book on moral and political philosophy; used by William Tecumseh Sherman while a cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Octavo, original calf. General Sherman and his son’s bookplates to the front pastedown. Intentionally scratched with “S” multiple times on the front panel by General Sherman. Inscribed by Sherman as a cadet on the front flyleaf, “Sherman Nov. 1st/39.” The date indicates that Sherman was in his third year at the academy upon signing this book. While at West Point, Sherman excelled academically, described by fellow cadet William Rosecrans as “one of the brightest and most popular fellows” at the academy. (Hirshson, The White Tecumseh, 1997, p. 13). This book, on one of the subjects Sherman described as excelling at, would have been used by him in his studies. In good condition with front panel detached, splitting to the hinges, some loss to the spine, and some toning throughout. No other examples of books used by Sherman at West Point are known.

Sherman writes about his time at West Point only briefly in his memoirs: "At the Academy I was not considered a good soldier, for at no time was I selected for any office, but remained a private throughout the whole four years. Then, as now, neatness in dress and form, with a strict conformity to the rules, were the qualifications required for office, and I suppose I found not to excel in any of these. In studies I always held a respectable reputation with the professors, and generally ranked among the best, especially in drawing, chemistry, mathematics, and natural philosophy. My average demerits, per annum, were about one hundred and fifty, which reduced my final class standing from number four to six."