William T. Sherman
Mason C. & Matt B.
Early Years
William T. Sherman was born on February 8th, 1820, in Lancaster, Ohio. Sherman graduated sixth in his class in United States Military Academy. His early military action was seen in the Second Battle of Seminole, Florida, but did not fight in the Mexican War. Instead, he served in California. Before the Civil War, Sherman took roles in banking and law.
Source
https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAYQjB0&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.civilwar.org%2Feducation%2Fhistory%2Fbiographies%2Fwilliam-t-sherman.html&ei=_jFCVcfWMMqRsAW27ICABQ&bvm=bv.92189499,d.cGU&psig=AFQjCNForpdOuhJLmK_NvpNzL17OAJeYwQ&ust=1430487881620085
Contribution to the Civil War
Sherman first saw combat in the Civil War at the Battle of Manassas, where he commanded a brigade of Tyler's Divison. Although defeated, the president, Abraham Lincoln, was impressed at Sherman's ability to command, and was promoted to brigadier general following the battle. His biggest contribution, and most controversial, is "Sherman's March to the Sea.", where Sherman implemented "Total War", destroying everything in his path by burning or breaking houses, wells, and armories.
Life After the Civil War
After the Civil War, Sherman stayed in the military, becoming the rank of General, serving from 1869 to 1883. His idea of "Total War" was revolutionary, with the world quickly learning the ways. He then died in 1891. He is currently buried at Calvary Cemetery , St. Louis, Minnesota. He has a memorial in Washington, DC, next to the White House.
Interesting Facts
1. Sherman actually loved the South, especially South Carolina, who seceded first.
2. He was also a California pioneer, who watched the early stages of the California Gold Rush.
3. He married his Foster sister, Ellen Boyle Ewing, and left his wife with 11 children
4. The M4 Sherman, a tank used in WW2, was named after William Sherman because of his idea of "Total War"
5. President Taylor attended Sherman's wedding in 1850