The Union Unleashes Total War
Explain Union General Sherman's total war strategy, how his March to the Sea destroyed Confederate infrastructure, and why it hastened the South's surrender in Grade 8 history.
Key Concepts
Part of the Union's final strategy was a harsh tactic called total war . This approach aimed to destroy not only the Confederate army but also the South's ability and will to fight. This meant attacking the farms, railroads, and supplies that supported the Confederacy.
General William T. Sherman put this strategy into action during his Sherman's March to the Sea . His army cut a path of destruction across Georgia, crippling the South's economy and crushing civilian morale. This devastation helped to speed up the end of the war.
Common Questions
What was total war in the Civil War?
Total war aimed to destroy not just the Confederate army but also the South's ability and will to fight by targeting railways, farms, factories, and civilian morale.
What was Sherman's March to the Sea?
General Sherman led 60,000 Union troops through Georgia to Savannah, cutting a 60-mile-wide path of destruction through Confederate territory to break Southern will.
How did total war strategy help end the Civil War?
By destroying the Confederate supply chain and civilian morale, Sherman's campaign made it impossible for Confederate armies to continue fighting effectively.