MILITARY HISTORY OF THE WEST 1995

Volume 25, No. 2, Fall 1995

Table of Contents

"The Controversial Alleged Account of Jose Enrique de la Pena," by William Groneman, pp. 129-42.

Abstract: This article describes the document generally known as the diary of Jose Enrique de la Pena, long treated as an authoritative account of the death of David Crockett at the Alamo. This diary has never been authenticated, and it possesses many characteristics that are recognized as indicators of historical forgeries.
Key Words: Alamo; de la Pena; David Crockett; forgeries

"A Reply -- When Revision Becomes Obsession: Bill Groneman and the de la Pena Diary," by James E. Crisp, pp. 143-55.

Abstract: Bill Groneman's research has advanced our understanding of the "diary" (more accurately, the memoir) of Jose Enrique de la Pena, but Groneman is almost certainly wrong in branding it a forgery. On the contrary, careful examination of alleged instances of plagiarism and anachronism instead bolster the likelihood of the manuscript's authenticity.
Key Words: Texas Revolution; Alamo; David Crockett; Jose Enrique de la Pena; forgeries

"A Rejoinder -- Publish Rather than Perish - Regardless: Jim Crisp and the de la Pena 'Diary,'" by William Groneman, pp. 157-65.

Abstract: The author defends his position that the diary of Jose Enrique de la Pena may be a fake and addresses the arguments of Professor James Crisp in his article, "A Reply -- When Revisionism Becomes Obsession: Bill Groneman and the de la Pena Diary." He also contends that Professor Crisp's opinions on the diary do nothing to prove the authenticity or reliability of that document.
Key Words: Jose Enrique de la Pena; David Crockett; Alamo; historical forgeries

"A New Way of War: The Development of Military Aviation in the American West, 1908-1945," by Roger D. Launius, pp. 167-90.

Abstract: This article describes the rise of aviation in the American West during the era 1908-1945. It focuses on the attractions that the region provided the Army, the placement of air bases in the region, and the investment of the Federal government in military aviation in the region.
Key Words: American West; military aviation; research and development; air bases; military logistics