What tactic did General Sherman use during his March to the Sea?

General Sherman employed psychological warfare against civilians during his March to the Sea, a military campaign in late 1864 aimed at crippling the Confederate war effort. By targeting infrastructure, destroying railroads, and seizing supplies, Sherman's forces not only diminished the Confederacy's capacity to sustain itself but also aimed to break the will of the Southern populace. His strategy was to demonstrate to civilians the harsh realities of war, making them feel the consequences of supporting the Confederate government.

This approach was intended to undermine morale among Southern communities, fostering a desire for peace and a quicker end to the conflict. By moving rapidly through enemy territory, Sherman aimed to create chaos and fear, which would discourage local support for Confederate troops and hasten the Union's victory. This tactic of psychological warfare highlighted the importance of civilian impact in wartime strategies and showcased Sherman’s belief that directly affecting civilian life could expedite the end of the Civil War.