The Grant-Sherman command partnership

Grant and Sherman describe their relationship in their own wartime correspondence. Grant credits Sherman and James B. McPherson with much of the energy, skill, and execution behind his success. Sherman replies that Grant's confidence, simplicity, and willingness to act after preparing gave subordinates faith that support would come if they were trapped. He also praises Grant's practical common sense while urging him to stay with the western armies rather than become absorbed by Washington politics. The exchange helps explain why Grant entrusted Sherman with an operation requiring independent judgement far from immediate support.