Amendment Quote by William Tecumseh Sherman
“To secure the safety of the navigation of the Mississippi River I would slay millions. On that point I am not only insane, but mad... I think I see one or two quick blows that will astonish the natives of the South and will convince them that, though to stand behind a big cottonwood and shoot at a passing boat is good sport and safe, it may still reach and kill their friends and families hundreds of miles off. For every bullet shot at a steamboat, I would shoot a thousand 30-pounder Parrots into even helpless towns on Red, Ouachita, Yazoo, or wherever a boat can float or soldier march.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Civil War Strategy, 1864
He proposes massive, indiscriminate violence to force compliance, reflecting a ruthless belief that terror can achieve political goals.
In simple terms: He suggests extreme violence to control the South.
Key Takeaway
Consider ethical limits of warfare tactics.
Themes
war
ethics
terrorism
Mood
grim
critical
Type
historical
ethical
When to use this quote
- Military campaigns
- political negotiations
- public opinion
- humanitarian law
Key Concepts
total war doctrine
civilian targeting
Questions to Reflect On
- Is terror ever justified in war?
- What alternatives could achieve objectives without mass casualties?
A Different Perspective
Violence against civilians is morally and legally condemned.
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