William Tecumseh Sherman
(1820–1891)

William Tecumseh ShermanAnecdote...

After the Mexican War, Sherman was sent by President Zachary Taylor to survey the newly acquired lands of New Mexico, Arizona, and California. On his return, Taylor asked Sherman: "Well, Captain, will our new possessions pay for the blood and treasure spent in the war?" Recalling the arid lands he had just explored, Sherman replied, "Between you and me, General, I feel that we'll have to go to war again." Taylor was aghast. "What for?" "What for?" he asked. "To make 'em take the darn country back!" said Sherman.


Biographical Note...

ShermanU.S. general. His strategic planning, and in particular his march to the sea (1864) from Atlanta to Savannah, were crucial to the success of the Union forces in the American Civil War (1861-1865).

The Mexican War (1846-48): a quick overview


More Information...

Read some biographical information of one of the better known Northern Civil War generals.