""We were as brothers," William Tecumseh Sherman said, describing his relationship with Ulysses S. Grant. They were incontestably two of the most important figures in the Civil War, but until now there has been no book about their victorious partnership and the deep friendship that made it possible." "Their growing mutual admiration and trust, which President Lincoln increasingly relied upon, set the stage for the crucial final year of the war. While Grant battled with Lee in the campaigns that ended at Appomattox Court House, Sherman first marched through Georgia to Atlanta, continued with his epic March to the Sea, and turned north from Savannah for his Carolina campaigns. Not only did Grant and Sherman come to think alike, but, even though their headquarters at that time were hundreds of miles apart, they were in virtually daily communication, strategizing the final moves of the war and planning how to approach the peace that would follow."--BOOK JACKET.

Includes bibliographical references (p. [429]-435) and index.

1. Two failed men with great potential 2. Grant awakens 3. Sherman goes in 4. Grant moves forward, with Sherman in a supporting role 5. The bond forged at Shiloh 6. Political problems, military challenges : the Vicksburg campaign develops 7. The siege of Vicksburg 8. Pain and pleasure on the long road to Chattanooga and Missionary Ridge 9. Confusion at Chattanooga 10. Grant and Sherman begin to develop the winning strategy

11. Sherman saves Lincoln's presidential campaign 12. Professional judgment and personal friendship : Savannah for Christmas 13. The march through the Carolinas, and an additional test of friendship 14. Grant, Sherman, and Abraham Lincoln hold a council of war - and peace 15. "I now feel like ending the matter" : Grant's final offensive 16. The days after Appomattox : joy and grief 17. Sherman in trouble 18. Grant, Sherman, and the radicals 19. A parade for everyone, and a hearing for Sherman 20. The past and future march up Pennsylvania Avenue.