A graduate of West Point, Sherman served at various posts in the south, and then in the Mexican War, before resigning from the military in 1853. In contrast to his future military career, he was a failure at everything he tried in civilian life - the bank in which he was a partner failed in 1857 and, as a practicing lawyer, he lost the only case he ever tried. He re-entered the military at the outbreak of the Civil War, serving with distinction in a number of capacities until 1864, when he captured Atlanta and made his famous "March to the Sea." While Sherman's orders during this campaign were to destroy only military installations and manufacturing facilities, an enormous amount of private property was destroyed as well, something for which Sherman was harshly criticized. In fact, it was Sherman's view that the paralysis of the enemy and quick end to the war could best be accomplished by impressing civilian population with the futility of resistance through destruction of property. After the war, Sherman was instrumental in the construction of the transcontinental railroad, and served as commanding general of the U.S. Army 1869-1883. He retired from the military in 1883, and lived quietly in retirement until his death. During this time, Sherman attended many reunions and celebrations, and was in constant demand at private social affairs.