How was destruction of the Richmond-Petersburg area a factor in the South's surrender in April 1865?

a.Cities were considered the heart of the South and Confederate morale imploded afterward.
b.It was the only significant area that was still under Confederate control at this point in the war.
c.Richmond was the Confederate capital and Petersburg a critical source of supplies by railroad.
d.Southern commanders elsewhere surrendered immediately as it was the first total war on a city.

Question

How was destruction of the Richmond-Petersburg area a factor in the South's surrender in April 1865?

a.Cities were considered the heart of the South and Confederate morale imploded afterward.
b.It was the only significant area that was still under Confederate control at this point in the war.
c.Richmond was the Confederate capital and Petersburg a critical source of supplies by railroad.
d.Southern commanders elsewhere surrendered immediately as it was the first total war on a city.

wwhitlock · Answer

The choice of Richmond as the Confederate capitol has always mystified me. It is an hour or so from Washington DC today.
The US easily destroyed the capitol when the finally got a general that would fight.. The loss of the capital and important rail depots was a severe blow to the Confederacy.