[The Memoirs of General W. T. Sherman<br> Vol. I.<br> Part 2 by William T. Sherman]@TWC D-Link book
The Memoirs of General W. T. Sherman
Vol. I.
Part 2

CHAPTER XIII
62/80

A civil government of the representative type would suit this class far less than a pure military role, readily adapting itself to actual occurrences, and able to enforce its laws and orders promptly and emphatically.
Second.

The smaller farmers, mechanics, merchants, and laborers.
This class will probably number three-quarters of the whole; have, in fact, no real interest in the establishment of a Southern Confederacy, and have been led or driven into war on the false theory that they were to be benefited somehow--they knew not how.
They are essentially tired of the war, and would slink back home if they could.

These are the real tiers etat of the South, and are hardly worthy a thought; for they swerve to and fro according to events which they do not comprehend or attempt to shape.

When the time for reconstruction comes, they will want the old political system of caucuses, Legislatures, etc., to amuse them and make them believe they are real sovereigns; but in all things they will follow blindly the lead of the planters.

The Southern politicians, who understand this class, use them as the French do their masses -- seemingly consult their prejudices, while they make their orders and enforce them.


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