General William Tecumseh Sherman: Union Army General who led the march.
What:
A devastating military campaign conducted by Union forces, led by General Sherman, during the American Civil War.
The march began in Atlanta, Georgia, and proceeded across the state to Savannah on the Atlantic coast.
Sherman’s objective was to destroy the Confederate Army’s ability to wage war in Georgia, targeting military and civilian infrastructure.
This included railroads, bridges, factories, and farms. The march also included the destruction of private property and the displacement of civilians.
Impact: Why Significant?:
Weakened Confederate War Effort: The destruction of resources and infrastructure significantly weakened the Confederacy’s capacity to fight.
Psychological Impact: The march had a profound psychological impact on the Confederate population, demoralizing the South and highlighting the Union’s unwavering determination.
Speeding the End of the War: The march is considered a major factor in the Confederacy’s ultimate defeat, as it crippled their ability to sustain the war effort.
Controversial Legacy: The march continues to be a topic of debate due to its destructive nature and its impact on civilian populations.