Union general sherman is often considered a monster in the eyes of many for the enacting of a total war policy during the latter half of the war. Many people think of it as a sort of rape of Nanking situation. But did Sherman actually condone the civilian deaths caused by his infamous march?

by EMB1981

I’m just interested. The myths surrounding generals are often shakey. Like grant and the alcoholism. So did Sherman condone the civilian deaths?

DanKensington

This was a fascinating thing to search for. I will say straight-up that there has not yet been any answer directly examining Sherman's position on the matter.

But on your related matters, there is this exchange between u/buy_a_pork_bun and u/Rittermeister on the matter of civilian casualties during Sherman's March to the Sea. There is also u/johndeville's examination of the topic. Basically, the March to the Sea and the Rape of Nanking are not comparable.