Joao Figueiredo vs William Tecumseh Sherman

Figueiredo's government passed legislation ending the two-party system imposed by the military, allowing the formation of multiple political parties. This reform facilitated the reorganization of opposition forces and the eventual return to multi-party democracy.

Figueiredo became the last military president of Brazil, succeeding Ernesto Geisel. His presidency marked the continuation of the political opening (abertura) process initiated by Geisel, aiming for a gradual transition to democracy.

Figueiredo signed Law No. 6,683, granting amnesty to political exiles and those accused of political crimes during the military regime. The law also covered state agents, preventing prosecution for human rights abuses.

A bomb exploded at a May Day concert at Riocentro, killing a military sergeant and wounding another. Evidence suggested involvement of hardline military factions opposed to abertura. The incident weakened Figueiredo's government and accelerated the democratic transition.

Facing a severe debt crisis and inflation, Figueiredo's government implemented an IMF-backed austerity program, including currency devaluation and spending cuts. The plan failed to stabilize the economy, leading to recession and social unrest.

Figueiredo's government faced massive public demonstrations demanding direct presidential elections (Diretas J

Sherman commanded a division at Shiloh, where his initial failure to entrench led to a surprise Confederate attack. Despite heavy losses, he rallied his troops and contributed to the Union victory, though the battle was criticized for poor preparation.

Sherman played a key role in Grant's Vicksburg Campaign, leading assaults and siege operations. The capture of Vicksburg gave the Union control of the Mississippi River, splitting the Confederacy in two.

Sherman led 60,000 Union troops from Atlanta to Savannah, destroying railroads, factories, and civilian property in a 300-mile swath. The campaign aimed to break Confederate morale and economic capacity, and resulted in the capture of Savannah.

Sherman led his army through the Carolinas, destroying infrastructure and supplies. The campaign culminated in the capture of Columbia, South Carolina, and the surrender of Confederate forces under Joseph Johnston, effectively ending the war in the East.