What Union tactic caused the most damage to the South's economy during the American Civil War?

Answer 1

The total naval blockade isolated the South from supplies and manufactured goods from the rest of the world. To a certain extent the blockade gave the Confederacy serious problems, however, the strategy and tactics of "total war" as was carried out by, among generals Grant and Sherman did the most economic damage. This resulted in the almost total destruction of farms and towns that the Union charged through. Farm animals, barns, railroad tracks and anything the Union believed could be later used against them, were demolished. This type of warfare was supported by Lincoln as well. The idea was to end the war as quickly as possible. It did bring some criticism however as being just too ruthless.

Another idea was to gain reelection for Lincoln. Bringing the war to an early close by sacrificing thousands of Union troops caused destruction and later the hate that would haunt America for another hundred years.

Answer 2

In considering the answer to this question, it must be noted that the Union's battle tactics were its operations during the course of any given battle. Better asked is what strategy of the Union did the most to damage the South's economy. The blockade has been ruled out by modern day historians. The Union blockade was ineffective. For example in 1863, when US Grant captured Vicksburg, he discovered 60,000 British rifles.

It is of further note that the South never lost a major battle due to a lack of firearms and ammunition.

The greatest harm to the Southern economy was the devastation of Southern farmlands and livestock by Union General Sherman in his drive to Atlanta and later on his way to Savannah.