General Sherman's March from Atlanta to Savannah: A Grisly Journey and Its Lasting Impacts
Major General William Tecumseh Sherman's military campaign, dubbed 'Sherman's March to the Sea', began on November 15, 1864, and concluded on December 21, 1864, spanning a period of approximately 36 days. This infamous march traced a southeastern route and covered roughly 300 by 60 miles, documenting a harrowing route across the Southern States.
Length and Trajectory of Sherman's March
Starting from the industrial powerhouse of Atlanta, Georgia, Sherman and his Army of the Tennessee traversed through the heart of the Confederacy. The march's southeastern trajectory was a testament to the strategic planners' intentions to strike at the economic and morale of the Confederate forces, while simultaneously weakening the enemy's supply lines and infrastructure.
The Aftermath of Destruction
The march itself was marked by intense destruction and devastation. Sherman's orders to his troops stated that they were to ravage the land through which they marched, destroying all supplies that could support the Confederate army. This included warehouses, railroads, and tobacco crops. One of the most notable side marches during this campaign was the Union general's advance on Vicksburg, Mississippi, followed by the destruction of everything in a wide swath all the way to Meridian, Mississippi. This series of events significantly weakened the Confederate forces and hastened the end of the Civil War.
The Legacy of Sherman's March
The effects of Sherman's March and its 'palmetto' counterpart, the march on Vicksburg, left a profound impact on the land and people of the Southern states. The scorched earth tactics employed during these campaigns not only devastated the Southern economy but also left behind a deep emotional and psychological scar on the local populace. Communities were left in ruins, and the environment suffered irreversible damage.
Long-Term Impact on Public Sentiment
The lasting effects of Sherman's March have been felt well beyond the immediate aftermath of the Civil War. The destruction and the severe loss of property and lives have contributed to a lingering resentment towards the federal government among the Southern population. This has persisted to this day, manifesting in the rise of anti-government sentiment, which is closely related to the rise of the radical right-wing support for figures like Donald Trump and those who adopt similar political ideologies.
Conclusion
General Sherman's March from Atlanta to Savannah was more than just a military maneuver; it was a transformative force that reshaped the landscape and the psyche of the Southern states. The devastation it inflicted leaves an indelible mark on history, serving as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the long-lasting impacts of such military campaigns. Understanding this period of history offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between military strategy, economic destruction, and the enduring sociopolitical impacts of conflict.