Question

In what ways did William Tecumseh Sherman and the Union forces destroy the South's will to carry on the fight?

a) Through diplomatic negotiations with Confederate leaders.
b) By avoiding civilian areas and minimizing damage.
c) Through total war tactics, including the burning of cities and infrastructure.
d) By providing economic aid to the South.

Answer 1

General William Tecumseh Sherman and the Union forces used total war tactics to crush the South's will during the Civil War, resulting in widespread destruction and civilian demoralization.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Union forces, under the command of General William Tecumseh Sherman, employed total war tactics to destroy the South's will to carry on the fight during the Civil War. The approach included the burning of cities, such as Atlanta, and the widespread destruction of infrastructure like railroads, plantations, and farms.

Despite strict instructions to preserve civilian property, Sherman's March to the Sea resulted in significant collateral damage, amplifying the demoralization of Southern society. This campaign also saw the emancipation of numerous slaves who followed the Union columns in their advance.

With military and civilian targets often indistinguishable under the doctrine of total war, General Sherman's forces aimed to not only defeat Confederate armies but also to disrupt the South's ability to sustain its war effort. This strategy effectively cut off Confederate resources and weakened their resolve, exacerbating the already strained Confederate supply lines and magnifying the suffering of the civilian population.