Sherman Letters to the Generals Essay Example
Sherman Letters to the Generals Essay Example

Sherman Letters to the Generals Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (549 words)
  • Published: August 28, 2016
  • Type: Letter
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Sherman writes to General Ulysses S. Grant, discussing the importance of army size in modern warfare. He urges for the request of the largest possible armies from our country, emphasizing that a great nation should not take risks with war. Sherman believes that having a bigger army is advantageous.

The letter sent to General John Bell Hood, who leads the Confederate Army of Tennessee, addresses their ongoing dispute regarding the city of Atlanta. Sherman has declared that the current residents of Atlanta should vacate the area. His justification for this decision is that he believes families should not reside in Atlanta anymore. However, it is clear that his real motive is to utilize all houses in Atlanta for military purposes and occupation, while also consolidating their lines of defense. In order to facilitate this relocatio

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n, Sherman is providing food and transportation for those heading further north, as well as cars for transportation to Rough and Ready. Sherman's letter to General Hood expresses his hope that his proposal aligns with Hood's own perspective.

Hood responded to Sherman's letter by stating that he believes he has no other options in this matter. He describes Sherman's removal proposal as exceedingly cruel and surpassing anything he has ever seen in the history of war. Sherman defends his actions by mentioning General Johnston, who also removed families from the area. Sherman also believes that there is no need to reference the dark history of war when there are recent and relevant examples available.

Sherman believes that he has never criticized General Hood for his cruelty, but he is troubled by the negative reception of his

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proposal. Sherman pleads for respect in using God's name and points out how General Hood's actions have plunged the nation into a cold and brutal war during a time of peace and prosperity (120). He argues that in modern times, it is both justified and necessary to engage in warfare against civilians in order to bring an end to the devastating ongoing conflict that plagues our beloved country. Sherman's objective is to protect women and children from witnessing violent scenes, as he views them as brave individuals caught in the midst of war.

The content of Hood's letter on September 12, 1864 expressed his strong discontent towards Sherman. Hood stated that he did not find anything in Sherman's communication that would make him change his condemnation of Sherman's order. Hood disagreed with Sherman's justification for the cruel act, as Hood believed he was also defending Atlanta at great risk and sacrifice. After Mayor James M. Calhoun and Sherman had a discussion about Sherman's petition, the mayor reconsidered the order to evacuate Atlanta due to witnessing its practical execution and progress thus far.

The mayor of Atlanta has requested Sherman to reconsider his evacuation order due to the presence of pregnant women, women with young children, and the absence of their husbands who are either in the army, prison, or deceased (124). Sherman's final letter to the mayor emphasized the need for peace not only in Atlanta but also in all of America. He stated that to achieve this peace, the war must be halted (125). Thus, it is necessary to defeat the rebel armies that are opposing the laws and Constitution.

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