how were general William t. sherman's tactics different from others used during the civil war?

General William T. Sherman's tactics during the Civil War were notably different from traditional military strategies used at the time. Some key differences include:

1. Total War: Sherman implemented a strategy of "total war" which involved targeting not just enemy military forces, but also civilian infrastructure and resources. This included his infamous March to the Sea, during which Sherman's troops destroyed everything in their path, including homes, crops, and railroads. This brutal tactic aimed to break the will of the Confederate population and bring a quicker end to the war.

2. Hard War: Sherman believed in waging a "hard war" that inflicted maximum damage on the enemy and their ability to fight. This contrasted with the more traditional notion of chivalry and gentlemanly conduct in warfare.

3. Maneuverability: Sherman's tactics also focused on the use of mobile warfare and strategic maneuvers to outflank and outmaneuver enemy forces. This allowed him to disrupt Confederate supply lines and communications, forcing their armies to constantly react to his movements.

4. Speed and Surprise: Sherman emphasized speed and surprise in his military campaigns, often catching his enemies off guard and forcing them to react quickly to his advances. This approach was a departure from the more methodical and cautious strategies employed by many other military leaders of the time.

Overall, General Sherman's tactics were innovative and controversial for their ruthless effectiveness in bringing the Confederacy to its knees. His aggressive and unorthodox approach to warfare helped to hasten the end of the Civil War and contributed to the Union's ultimate victory.