Sherman: The Ruthless Victor by Agostino Von Hassell and Ed Breslin is a recent addition to Thomas Nelson's The Generals series. Unlike the Von Hassell and Breslin biography of George Patton which I have previously reviewed, the Sherman biography is quick to draw attention to Sherman's faults. At no point in the book is Sherman deified. Rather, the authors clearly detail Sherman's insecure, yet ruthless personality. His treatment of Southern blacks, his burning of Atlanta as well as his infamous "March to the Sea" outline a cruel and uncaring individual.
The product of a difficult upbringing, Sherman failed early on as a military leader; failed as a college administrator (at what is now Louisiana State University); and failed in business as a banker. Due to the connections of his father-in-law, whom Sherman despised, Sherman continued to receive additional opportunities not normally afforded those with a faltering track record.
Married, yet unconnected to his wife and children, Sherman consistently chose to accept business and military assignments with little regard to the impact his choices would make on his family. However, the ruthless nature which allowed him to be the hammer for the Union forces during the Civil War, has led to his place in history.
If you are looking for a brief biography that provides significant information on Sherman's life (I wish The Generals Series would provide detailed bibliography notes within the text), I would recommend this book.
I reviewed this book in conjunction with Thomas Nelson's BookSneeze program, was not compensated for this review and the opinions expressed are solely mine.
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