William T. Sherman’s Federal armies continue moving into South Carolina, disregarding the elements, logistical challenges, and sporadic Confederate resistance along the way.
Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
William T. Sherman’s Federal armies continue moving into South Carolina, disregarding the elements, logistical challenges, and sporadic Confederate resistance along the way.
Confederate President Jefferson Davis accepts the resignation of John Bell Hood as commander of the Army of Tennessee and replaces him with Richard Taylor.
William Hardee, commanding the small Confederate force defending Savannah on the Atlantic coast, issues orders for his troops to evacuate the city in the face of overwhelming Federal numbers.
William T. Sherman’s Federal armies assume attack positions outside Savannah, hoping to capture this vital port city on the Atlantic coast and complete their march to the sea.
The capture of Fort McAllister gives William T. Sherman’s Federals an unlimited supply line via the ocean and enables them to shift their focus to the key city of Savannah.
Main elements of William T. Sherman’s Federal armies arrive on the outskirts of Savannah after cutting a path of destruction through Georgia from Atlanta to the sea. Sherman resolves to lay siege to the city, while Confederates work desperately to fortify defenses.