Chapter 57: Sherman Takes Resaca, Georgia

Back on November 27, 1863 Bragg’s army escapes from a defeat at Chattanooga through the Reingold Gap and reaches momentary safety at Dalton, Georgia. A winter respite follows until the Union led by William Sherman picks up the chase in victories on May 8, 1864, at Rocky Face Ridge and Dalton.

His objective is Atlanta, but he first needs to get through Resaca, 75 miles to the north. He arrives there on May 13 to face Joseph Johnston who replaces Bragg as head of the Army of Tennessee in February 1864.

Sherman enjoys a manpower advantage of 105,000 to 65,000 as the fighting breaks out on May 15. Afternoon assaults on the Union left flank by John Bell Hood are offset by General John Logan’s move against the Confederate’s left.

The balance, however, is tipped in Sherman’s favor when his troops cross the Oostanaula River below the city, threatening Johnston’s line of retreat. At dusk he orders a retreat.