1. For Freedom Lincoln gives full command of the Union Army to Grant.
Decision questioned because of Grant’s high casualty figures.
“I cannot spare this man, he fights.” - Lincoln

2. Grant moves his forces to challenge Lee, who is still commanding an Army in Virginia.
He must beat Lee to end the war.

3. Grant develops a two pronged attack.
Grant will engage Lee from the North
Sherman will invade the South directly, and squeeze.

4. Sherman moves towards Atlanta, which was a major Confederate stronghold.
Railroad junction, armory, supplies.

5. Sherman and Grant both stall in their campaigns in the summer of 1864, heading in to an election.
Lincoln runs against George McClellan

6. McClellan campaigns on the idea of ending the war and letting the South form a new nation.
Lincoln is behind, due to the war being unpopular in the North.

7. In September, Sherman captures Atlanta.
Lincoln is reelected because the end of the war is in sight.

8. Sherman turns towards the Carolinas in December.
Two objectives
Pin Lee between him and Grant
Unleash TOTAL WAR

9. Over the next 6 months, Sherman and his men burn a path through GA, SC.
They move through the woods, stay away from major battles, and live off the land.

10. Along the way, cities are burned, property is stolen, and slaves are freed.
South Carolina is TERRIFIED.

11. Sherman arrives in Columbia, and he easily takes the capital.