Why did President Lincoln authorize General Sherman to wage total war on the South including burning the city of Atlanta?

Answer 1

No, it was never ordered by anyone.

Much of the city had been destroyed by artillery fire during the Battle of Atlanta.

On occupying the city, Sherman expelled the civilians, and burned down all buildings that could be of military use to the enemy, in case they re-occupied the city. Some of these buildings were ammunition stores, and they exploded with terrible effect.

But Sherman had no particular motive to burn civilian dwellings, and Grant's despatches to Sherman make no mention of destruction for its own sake.

Answer 2

The question is responded to with an answer for: "Was Atlanta burned to ground after its capture by General Sherman?"

After the surrender of this key Southern city, Sherman used it as his headquarters for almost 2 months. After ordering all citizens out of the city, ( some exceptions were made .. hospitals and patients etc, ) Sherman began his march to sea and burned most of Atlanta down upon his departure.

There is allot to be said about the ending year of the War, but that's for another time.

Answer 3

Sherman was trying to crush the south, which is the only way to put down a rebellion. Atlanta was a major city and a huge loss if it were to be destroyed.

Answer 4

In capturing Atlanta, Sherman would gain control of one of the strongest, most important cities in the South. That was a huge accomplishment for the North.

Answer 5

He was aiming to destroy any buildings that might be of military use to the enemy. But the fires spead, and he ended up destroying most of the city and expelling many of the inhabitants.

Answer 6

I've been told his wife was from Madison.