Battle of Atlanta
Fulton and DeKalb counties, Georgia
What happened
Union General William T. Sherman, with General James B. McPherson, fought the Confederate army of General John Bell Hood, who had just replaced General Joseph E. Johnston. In 1864 Sherman's armies were advancing on Atlanta, Georgia, a vital railroad hub for the Confederacy. Hood attacked the Union army east of the city. His attacks failed, and the Union army held its ground. General McPherson was lost in the battle.
Why it matters
Result: Union victory. Leaders: James B. McPherson against William H.T. Walker. Why it matters: The battle tightened Sherman's grip on Atlanta, which fell six weeks later. News of the victories lifted Northern spirits and helped President Lincoln win re-election in November 1864.
What came next
Atlanta fell on September 2, 1864. In November Sherman began his March to the Sea, destroying railroads and property all the way to Savannah, which he offered to Lincoln as a Christmas present.
Did you know?
A giant circular painting of the battle, the Atlanta Cyclorama, can still be seen at the Atlanta History Center.
Timeline
- July 22, 1864Union forces defeat Hood's attack east of Atlanta.
- September 2, 1864Atlanta falls to Sherman.
- November 15, 1864Sherman begins the March to the Sea.
- December 21, 1864The March to the Sea ends at Savannah.