Did General William Tecumseh Sherman Ever Change His Mind About the Southern United States After the End of the American Civil War?

General William Tecumseh Sherman is often remembered as a military leader whose actions during the American Civil War were harsh and brutal. This brings to question the depth of his convictions and whether he held any shift in his views regarding the Southern United States after the war's end. Let's explore Sherman's stance throughout his career and post-war period.

Background and Early Career

William Tecumseh Sherman's military career began long before the American Civil War. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1840 and served in the Mexican-American War. After the war, Sherman held various administrative and teaching positions, including directing the Louisiana Military Institute. His decision to resign from this role and rejoin the Union Army upon the outbreak of the Civil War was based on his conviction that his loyalty should lie with the Union and that the secession was an illegitimate act.

Reluctant Unionist

Despite being a Unionist, Sherman's personal views were complex and often contradictory. He was criticized for his strong racial prejudices and his enjoyment of the social and cultural aspects of the Southern elite. Sherman's personal relationships and professional loyalties were deeply rooted in his admiration for the Southern way of life. This made him an atypical Union general, at least in his social interactions.

No Doubts About the War Effort

While Sherman had no doubt about his loyalty towards the Union, his strategic and moral views on the war were more nuanced. Sherman believed in the just cause of the Union and the inevitability of the Confederacy's defeat. He was a firm believer that the harsh treatment of the South would spare both sides further bloodshed. Sherman's actions, such as the infamous 'March to the Sea,' were driven not by personal resentment against the Southern states, but by a calculated strategy to end the war.

Harsh Treatment and Belief in Southern Interests

During his tenure as the Union's highest-ranking field commander, Sherman's methods were often described as brutal. The 'March to the Sea' and subsequent campaigns in the Carolinas caused significant destruction to civilian infrastructures and property. Yet, Sherman believed that his actions were necessary to end the senseless rebellion that he saw as a threat to the Union. He often justified his actions by claiming that they would bring a quicker end to the war and thus reduce further casualties for both sides.

Friendly Ties with Southern Notables

It is worth noting that Sherman maintained friendly relationships with several Southern notables, including Robert E. Lee, during and after the war. This is particularly interesting given the animosities typical among opposing forces. Sherman's ability to build such relationships indicates a level of empathy and respect towards those he deemed to be justified in their wartime efforts, despite opposing their political stance.

Post-War Views and Legacy

Post-war, Sherman's views remained consistent with his wartime strategies. He believed that the harsh treatments he imposed on the Southern states were justified as a means to preserve the Union. Sherman's legacy is thus mixed. While he is revered by many for his military acumen, he is also criticized for the severe actions he took during his campaigns.

Conclusion

General William Tecumseh Sherman did not change his fundamental beliefs about the nature of the Confederacy and his loyalty to the Union. His actions and his efforts during the American Civil War were driven by a clear sense of duty and a belief in the righteousness of the Union's cause. Despite personal sensibilities, Sherman's strategic choices were aimed at ending the war swiftly and minimizing further bloodshed, rather than personal vengeance. His legacy remains a complex mix of military brilliance and controversial methods.

Related Keywords

William Tecumseh Sherman American Civil War Racial Prejudices

References

1. James M. McPherson, The American Civil War: A Military History. 2. Jeffrey C. Woodward, William Tecumseh Sherman: The Soldier as a Statesman. 3. Margaret S. Creighton, General William Tecumseh Sherman: The Soldier, the Rebel, the Man.