The Start of Sherman's March to the Sea
Major General William Tecumseh Sherman
On November 15, 1864, Union Major General William Tecumseh Sherman embarked on one of the most significant campaigns of the American Civil War. Leaving behind the captured city of Atlanta, Sherman's troops set off on a path of destruction aimed at crippling the Confederacy's ability to wage war. His strategy was not merely to defeat enemy armies but to break the will of the southern population, making the war so burdensome that they would demand peace.
The Route and Impact of Sherman's March
Sherman's forces traveled approximately 285 miles to the Atlantic coast, specifically targeting Savannah, Georgia. The March to the Sea involved a total destruction of the land, as they cut a swath through the heart of Georgia, destroying railroads, supplies, and farms. This ruthless campaign targeted both military objectives and the infrastructure that supported them. Sherman's intention was clear: make the war go on for the South so that they might reconsider their resolve to fight.
The Tactics and Consequences of the March
Warfare Reimagined by Sherman
General Sherman utilized a strategy known as total warfare. This involved not just fighting the Confederate army but also undermining the economic foundations of the South. By destroying civilian property, farms, and food supplies, Sherman aimed to instill fear and desperation among the Southern populace. His troops did not merely fight; they sought to bring the war home to the South, effectively reshaping the nature of warfare itself.
The Fall of Savannah
After a month of grueling march, Sherman reached Savannah on December 21, 1864. The city fell without a major battle, showcasing the success of his campaign. The capture of Savannah represented a significant victory, as Sherman telegraphed President Lincoln that he had presented the city as a Christmas gift. This victory bolstered Northern morale and demonstrated the effectiveness of Sherman's tactics, contributing significantly to the eventual Union victory in the Civil War.
Fun Fact
Did You Know? Sherman’s March caused significant strife in the South.
It's estimated that Sherman's troops destroyed roughly $100 million worth of property during the March to the Sea, a staggering amount that illustrates the intensity of his campaign and its lasting impact on the Southern economy.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Sherman's March to the Sea
For those interested in a deeper exploration into Sherman's tactics and the implications of his march, consider reading ''Sherman's March'' by Burke Davis and ''Marching Through Georgia: The Story of Sherman’s Campaign'' by John D. Winters.
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