What was general Ulysses S. Grant’s strategy to win the war? To utilize the navy more effectively, to wage total war on the south, to bring the war to the territories in the west, to allow freed slaves to fight for the North
General Ulysses S. Grant's strategy to win the Civil War can be summarized as follows:
1. Utilize the navy more effectively: Grant recognized the importance of controlling the Mississippi River as a key strategic objective. He devised a plan to take control of the river and conducted several successful campaigns, culminating in the siege of Vicksburg in 1863. By effectively utilizing the navy, Grant aimed to strangle the Confederacy's supply lines and divide the South into two parts.
2. Wage total war on the South: Grant believed in waging a relentless and aggressive war against the Confederacy. He realized that the war could only be won by completely defeating the enemy, and he pursued a strategy of attrition. Grant's approach involved continuous pressure on Confederate forces, with the goal of wearing them down and depleting their resources. This resulted in high casualties but played a crucial role in the Union's ultimate victory.
3. Bring the war to the territories in the West: Grant recognized the importance of the Western theater in the overall war effort. He coordinated with other Union commanders operating in the West, such as General William T. Sherman, to strike at Confederate forces and disrupt their operations in regions like Tennessee, Mississippi, and Georgia. By expanding the conflict beyond its original boundaries, Grant aimed to weaken the Confederate position and increase pressure on the South.
4. Allow freed slaves to fight for the North: Grant championed the enlistment of African American soldiers into the Union army. He believed that their inclusion would not only bolster Union forces but also strike a significant blow against the Confederacy, crippling their labor force and reducing their ability to sustain the war effort. Grant actively supported the recruitment and organization of African American regiments, many of which played vital roles in key Union victories.
These strategic elements, along with Grant's leadership abilities and determination, proved pivotal in securing Union victory in the Civil War.