SHERMAN'S MARCH

 

Sherman's March to the Sea: Timeline

November 15, 1864
🔹 Departure from Atlanta

• General William T. Sherman begins his march from Atlanta, Georgia, after ordering the destruction of military resources and infrastructure.

November 16–21, 1864
🔹 Advances through central Georgia

• Union troops split into two wings and move south and southeast, destroying railroads, crops, and supplies to cripple the Confederacy’s war effort.

November 22, 1864
🔹 Battle of Griswoldville

• A small but fierce engagement; Union forces defeat Georgia militia near Griswoldville.

Late November 1864
🔹 Milledgeville occupied

• The capital of Georgia is captured; Union soldiers burn public buildings and the statehouse.

December 3–9, 1864
🔹 Approaching Savannah

• Sherman’s forces converge on Savannah, meeting light resistance as they near the coast.

December 10–20, 1864
🔹 Siege of Savannah

• Union forces surround Savannah and cut off Confederate supplies.

December 21, 1864
🔹 Savannah falls

• Confederate General William Hardee evacuates Savannah. Sherman captures the city and offers it to President Lincoln as a "Christmas gift."