"Masterfully researched . . . destined to become a classic study of one of the most horrific weapons ever utilized during the Civil War—landmines." —Jonathan A. Noyalas, director, Shenandoah University's McCormick Civil War Institute Despite all that has been published on the American Civil War, one aspect that has never received the in-depth attention it deserves is the widespread use of landmines across the Confederacy. These "infernal devices" dealt death and injury in nearly every Confederate state and influenced the course of the war. Kenneth R. Rutherford rectifies this oversight with America's Buried History: Landmines in the Civil War, the first book devoted to a comprehensive analysis and history of the fascinating and important topic. Modern landmines were used for the first time in history on a widespread basis during the Civil War when the Confederacy, in desperate need of an innovative technology to overcome significant deficits in material and manpower, employed them. The first American to die from a victim-activated landmine was on the Virginia Peninsula in early 1862 during the siege of Yorktown. Their use set off explosive debates inside the Confederate government and within the ranks of the army over the ethics of using "weapons that wait." As Confederate fortunes dimmed, leveraging low-cost weapons like landmines became acceptable and even desirable. Dr. Rutherford, who is known worldwide for his work in the landmine discipline, and who himself lost his legs to a mine in Africa, has written an important contribution to the literature on one of the most fundamental, contentious, and significant modern conventional weapons. "A MUST for military history buffs! A thrilling and chilling read." —His Royal Highness Prince Mired Raad Al-Hussein, UN Special Envoy for Landmine Prohibition Treaty

This book provides a detailed history of the global movement to ban anti-personnel landmines (APL), marking the first case of a successful worldwide civil society movement to end the use of an entire category of weapons. In March 1995, Belgium became the first state to pass a domestic anti-personnel landmine ban. In December 1997, 122 states joined Belgium in signing the comprehensive Mine Ban Treaty, also known as the Ottawa Treaty. The movement to ban landmines became a turning point in global politics that continues to influence policy and strategy decisions regarding weapon use today. Disarming States: The International Movement to Ban Landmines describes how non-government organizations (NGOs) brought the landmine issue to international attention by forming the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL). The author presents new information gleaned from interviews and intensive research conducted around the world. The critical role of mid-size states—such as Austria, Canada, and Switzerland—recruited to back the movement's goals is examined. The book concludes by examining how NGOs affect the international political agenda, especially in seeking legal prohibitions on weapons and changes in states' behaviors.

John A. Rutherford came with his family to the Direct area from Tennessee in 1835, a few months before the Texas Revolution. When Lamar County was formed in 1842, he was elected its Chief Justice by the Republic of Texas Congress. He was a surveyor, a farmer, and the first schoolteacher in Honey Grove. Taking his land grant along Red River and east of Petty, he became a wealthy man for his time. Though he opposed secession, he lost two sons in the Civil War. After the conflict, he began writing a daily diary which he kept until his death. It paints a marvelous picture of farm life in post-war Northeast Texas. In it, he mentions over 500 people who lived in and passed through the Petty area, many of whom stayed at the inn he and his sons ran. Although proudly proclaiming himself an atheist, he was the most moral of men, and being one of its earliest settlers, he helped build Lamar County.

Resistance and distractions came come in different ways, whether through people or circumstances. They can take us by surprise and cause us to ponder. Life has a way of presenting detours that can make you doubt the path you are on. You think you have it all figured out and then realize you do not have a clue. When this happens, we need FAITH to run the race with our eyes on the prize. We all need friends and family that will help push us out of our comfort zone and to the finish line. I Had a Conversation with Faith is a unique book filled with reminders to help you adjust your mindset. This book will also encourage you to set your face like flint on the promises of God and reaching your goals. Donna R. Rutherford Be Made Whole Ministries https: //bemadewholeministries.org

Life has a way of giving you opportunities to find your niche. It also gives you opportunities to use your gifts. It can be an awesome adventure to discover them.WHAT'S IN YOUR HAND? is a unique book filled with inspirational nuggets to help you ponder and take your rightful position - to prayerfully encourage you to stir up the gifts God has given you. You never know when God is going to require them to be revealed. You must be a willing vessel.May God use this book to help you celebrate being a conduit of His goodness that will inspire, impart, and impact. Donna R. Rutherford is a native of Washington, D.C. She was raised in a Christian home but did not discover the need for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ until becoming an adult. She received her Associate Degree in Business Administration. She also received certificates from Evangel Cathedral's Bible School and Leadership; and The Shepherd's House International Christian Church MasterLife Discipleship. Donna has a heart for the needy and homeless, while serving in several Outreach Ministries. She is an author and speaker dedicated to giving inspirational and biblical encouragement to others. The Bible is her source of inspiration.