Final answer:
Sherman's March to the Sea had devastating effects on the Confederacy leading to significant material and psychological damage, ultimately expediting the end of the Civil War and contributing to the Northern victory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effects upon the Confederacy of Sherman's March to the Sea were catastrophic and contributed significantly to the downfall of the Confederate resistance during the American Civil War. After capturing Atlanta, General William T. Sherman pursued a strategy of total warfare, aiming to break the morale and economic backbone of the Confederacy. His march from Atlanta to Savannah involved not only military targets but also infrastructure, civilian property, and agricultural resources. The destruction encompassed railroad tracks, plantations, farms, and stores of food, which effectively interrupted the Confederate supply lines and economy. Additionally, the march contributed to further weakening the South's will to continue the war.
The physical destruction was extensive; towns were left standing, but houses and barns were burned, while homes were looted, crops destroyed, orchards burnt, and livestock killed or taken. Moreover, the social fabric was directly impacted as slaves seized the opportunity to flee their bondage, following the Union troops in the thousands, seeking protection and asserting their quest for freedom.
This fundamentally undermined the institution of slavery in the areas affected by Sherman's campaign. Savannah's fall on December 21, 1864, was emblematic of the collapse of the Confederacy's capacity to wage war, as General Sherman proceeded to march through South Carolina and onwards, further solidifying the Union's position.
The psychological impact on the Confederate soldiers and civilians alike was one of hopelessness and fear as they witnessed the unstoppable Union forces ravage their land. The march demonstrated the futility of resistance and showcased the industrial strength and resources of the North, foreshadowing the inevitable conclusion of the war. In summary, Sherman's March to the Sea expedited the end of the Civil War by crippling the Confederate war effort both materially and psychologically.