Ep 9. Chattanooga to Appomattox: 1863-1865

American Military History: From Colonials to Counterinsurgents season 1 episode 9, titled "Chattanooga to Appomattox: 1863-1865", delves into the final years of the American Civil War. The episode begins by highlighting the Union's victory at Chattanooga, which opened up the Confederacy's transportation lines. From there, the Union army under General William T. Sherman began its infamous "March to the Sea" campaign, where his soldiers devastated Southern cities and towns in an effort to break the Confederate's will to fight.

The episode also delves into the political climate of the time, where President Abraham Lincoln faced mounting criticism over his Emancipation Proclamation. While it was viewed as a victory for the Union, many Northerners saw it as an unnecessary move that could prolong the war. As it turned out, the proclamation had the opposite effect, as it gave black soldiers a sense of purpose and galvanized them to fight harder for their own freedom.

The episode examines the pivotal battle of Gettysburg, the turning point of the war, where the Union army, led by General George Meade, defeated the Confederates under General Robert E. Lee. The battle lasted for three days and was the bloodiest of the war, with over 50,000 casualties. Despite his defeat, Lee's army remained intact and continued to fight on for several more months.

Finally, the episode ends with General Ulysses S. Grant's relentless pursuit of Lee's army, which eventually led to the surrender at Appomattox Courthouse. While the war was officially over, the aftermath would continue to shape American history for decades to come.

Overall, "Chattanooga to Appomattox: 1863-1865" is a revealing episode that explores the complexities of the American Civil War. It shows how politics, military strategy, and social issues all played a role in shaping the conflict and how the decisions made during this time would have a lasting impact on the country as a whole.