Final answer:
Chamberlain's decision likely refers to Gen. William T. Sherman's 'March to the Sea,' not Chamberlain directly. Sherman's strategy of total war had risks but succeeded in demoralizing the Confederacy, leading to the eventual Union victory in the Civil War.
Step-by-step explanation:
The decision by Chamberlain discussed here refers to General Chamberlain during the American Civil War, although there seems to be a mix-up with Neville Chamberlain being mentioned, who was related to World War II. If we are speaking about General Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain in the Civil War, he was known for his defense at Little Round Top during the Battle of Gettysburg.
However, the student may be referring to General William Tecumseh Sherman, who decided to sweep the Confederates away through his March to the Sea, a form of total war, aimed to demoralize the Confederates by destroying infrastructure and resources that could support the Southern war effort.
There were several risks associated with Sherman's strategy, including extended supply lines, the necessity of dealing with a hostile civilian population, and the potential for significant casualties and social upheaval. Despite the risks, the March to the Sea was ultimately successful, contributing to the weakening of the Confederacy's resolve and the eventual surrender of Confederate forces at Appomattox Court House in 1865.