Question

General Sherman’s total war strategy during the Civil War involved attacking both the South’s military and civilian (not in the military) resources to weaken their ability to keep fighting. If you were a Union supporter at the time, how would you balance the ethical concerns of targeting civilians with the goal of ending the war quickly?

Answer 1

Balancing ethical concerns with military objectives during a conflict like the Civil War is a complex issue, especially in the context of General Sherman's total war strategy. As a Union supporter, one could approach this dilemma from several angles:

1. Understanding the Context: Acknowledge that the Civil War was a brutal conflict with profound implications for the nation. The South’s ability to wage war was heavily reliant on its civilian resources, including food, transportation, and industrial support. The moral imperative to end the war quickly to save lives should be weighed against the immediate ethical implications of civilian suffering.

2. Minimizing Harm to Civilians: While supporting the strategy of targeting resources, one could advocate for efforts to minimize civilian casualties and suffering. This could involve distinguishing between military and civilian targets more clearly and implementing measures to ensure that civilians are not unnecessarily harmed during military operations.

3. Justification of Total War: Frame the justification of total war within a larger humanitarian context. The argument could be made that the quicker the Union can defeat the Confederacy, the less overall suffering there will be in the long run. By shortening the war, one could argue that fewer lives would ultimately be lost, both military and civilian.

4. Diplomatic Efforts: Support the continuation of diplomatic efforts and negotiations alongside military actions. This could provide avenues for reconciliation and discourage the total annihilation of resources or morale, as these initiatives could emphasize a desire for peace and rebuilding rather than relentless destruction.

5. Public Discourse: Encourage open public discourse about the morality of tactics used in war, promoting discussions on the ethics of warfare. This could involve advocating for a careful examination of military strategies and their effects on civilians, ensuring that any actions taken are transparent and accountable.

6. Long-term Consequences: Assess the long-term consequences of wartime actions on the South's civilian population and the post-war reconciliation efforts. Emphasizing the need for a robust plan for recovery and rebuilding after the war can help alleviate the ethical burden of wartime actions that disproportionately affect civilians.

In conclusion, as a Union supporter, one would strive to find a balance that promotes a swift end to the conflict while minimizing the suffering of those not involved in the military aspects of the war, all while staying mindful of the broader implications for the nation’s future.