Sherman's March to the Sea — Reading Comprehension

In 1864, the United States was in the middle of the Civil War. The Union Army wanted to end the war and bring the country back together. General William Tecumseh Sherman led a daring plan to help the Union win.

General Sherman started his march in Atlanta, Georgia. Atlanta was an important city for the South. It had railroads and supplies the Southern army needed. Sherman's army captured Atlanta and then set out for the city of Savannah, more than 250 miles away.

As they marched, Sherman's soldiers destroyed railroads, burned bridges, and took food and horses. This made it hard for the Southern army to fight. The march was not only about winning battles. It was also to show the people in the South that the war would soon end. Sherman wrote, "I can make Georgia howl."

The people in the towns and farms along the way were scared. Some lost their homes and crops. But Sherman's soldiers did not harm the people. Their goal was to break the South's ability to fight, not to hurt civilians.

After weeks of hard marching, Sherman and his army reached Savannah in December 1864. He sent a message to President Lincoln: "I beg to present you as a Christmas gift the city of Savannah." Sherman's march helped end the war by breaking the South's spirit and strength. It also showed how brave and determined people can help change history.

Interesting Fact: Sherman's army traveled over 250 miles during the march and had to find food along the way.

Who led the March to the Sea?

Where did the march start?

When did Sherman's army reach Savannah?

Why did Sherman destroy railroads?

What did Sherman give to Lincoln?

What was the goal of the march?

Sherman's soldiers harmed civilians. True or false?

What does 'supplies' mean?