In this lesson students will learn about the major events and nature of the Atlanta Campaign (May- September 1864) by using maps, stereographs, primary and secondary sources, and excerpts from Grant’s Memoirs. The American Civil War saw the advent of total war as Union forces focused their military efforts on the destruction of the ability of the South to fight the war by destroying transportation and manufacturing capabilities. The Atlanta Campaign culminated with the destruction of Atlanta
by Sherman’s army. This campaign was critical to the Union war effort in that it contributed to the
reelection of Lincoln and solidified support in the North for continuing the war until total victory.
