Teaching Students About General Sherman
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General William Tecumseh Sherman was a brilliant strategist and one of the most influential military leaders in American history. As a prominent figure of the Civil War, teaching students about General Sherman can provide invaluable insights into his life, achievements, and the broader context of the 19th-century United States. This article offers a comprehensive guide for educators looking to teach their students about General Sherman’s life and legacy effectively.
Early Life and Military Career
Begin by discussing General Sherman’s early life and military career. Born on February 8, 1820, in Lancaster, Ohio, he was raised by a prominent Ohio politician after his father’s death. This background could offer an interesting glimpse into how different upbringing experiences may have influenced his worldview or shaped his approach to leadership.
Explain that Sherman graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1840 and subsequently served in various capacities before becoming a well-regarded figure in the Civil War. Discuss his experiences during the Mexican-American War and his time stationed in California during the Gold Rush.
Civil War Leadership
Encourage students to examine General Sherman’s role in the Civil War more closely. He served as a Union general under Ulysses S. Grant during several key campaigns, including Shiloh (1862) and Vicksburg (1863). His performance during these battles can be analyzed further to help students understand how leadership played a crucial role in determining the outcomes of such events.
Sherman’s March to the Sea
Dedicate ample time to discussing one of General Sherman’s most well-known contributions: his famous “March to the Sea” campaign in 1864. This scorched-earth strategy involved destroying civilian infrastructure across Georgia by burning towns and plantations along a 60-mile wide spree from Atlanta to Savannah. Emphasize this campaign’s significance as a turning point in the Civil War and explore its implications on both military tactics and the broader concept of “total war.”
Reconstruction and Later Life
Conclude the unit by discussing General Sherman’s role in the Reconstruction era after the Civil War, including his service as a military governor in Louisiana, Texas, and the Dakota Territory. Delve into his later life, including his time as Commanding General of the U.S. Army from 1869 to 1883.
Discussion and Activities
Encourage critical thinking among students by incorporating discussion questions and activities. This can include:
1. Comparing General Sherman’s leadership style to other famous generals in history, exploring their similarities and differences.
2. Analyzing primary sources related to Sherman’s life, such as letters or speeches he gave during his career.
3. Conducting debates on the ethics of his “March to the Sea” campaign and examining the extent to which such actions can be justified during wartime.
Conclusion
Teaching students about General Sherman can not only provide them with valuable information about this important historical figure but also foster critical thinking skills that will help them better engage with history in general. By following this comprehensive guide, educators can facilitate meaningful discussions about General Sherman’s impact on American history to further enrich their students’ understanding of this period.