An Army is a collection of armed men obliged to obey one man. Every change in the rules which impairs the principle weakens the army.
William Tecumseh ShermanRead
The young bloods of the South: sons of planters, lawyers about towns, good billiard-players and sportsmen, men who never did any work and never will... They are splendid riders, first-rate shots and utterly reckless. These men must all be killed or employed by us before we can hope for peace.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Sherman describes the dangerous youth of the South, emphasizing their skills and reckless nature, suggesting they must either be defeated or enlisted for peace.
In this quote, William Tecumseh Sherman reflects on the temperamental youth of the southern states during a time of conflict. He portrays them as skilled individuals who are wasteful and reckless, relying on their talents in riding and shooting rather than engaging in productive labor. Sherman implies that in order to achieve peace, these energetic young men must either be neutralized or redirected into service that benefits the greater good. The underlying message speaks to the need for overcoming opposition through change or integration.
Themes
YoungPeaceWarTalentRecklessness
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the impact of youthful energy in conflict situations.
More from William Tecumseh Sherman
All quotes →Every attempt to make war easy and safe will result in humiliation and disaster.
William Tecumseh ShermanRead
I think I understand what military fame is; to be killed on the field of battle and have your name misspelled in the newspapers.
William Tecumseh ShermanRead
You people of the South don't know what you are doing. This country will be drenched in blood, and God only knows how it will end. It is all folly, madness, a crime against civilization! You people speak so lightly of war; you don't know what you're talking about.
William Tecumseh ShermanRead
War is too serious a matter to leave to soldiers.
William Tecumseh ShermanRead
War's Legitimate Object Is More Perfect Peace.
William Tecumseh ShermanRead
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