During the 1864 Shenandoah Campaign, Sheridan employed which approach to achieve battlefield success?

• A. Cavalry mobility and shock with unity of command
• B. Pure infantry frontal assaults with no cavalry
• C. Naval support to secure crossings
• D. Attrition through prolonged siege with heavy casualties

Answer: (A)

Mobile cavalry operations, coordinated under unified command, can decisively shape a campaign by striking at the enemy’s rear, disrupting supplies, and threatening communications, so battles unfold on the attacker’s terms. In the 1864 Shenandoah Campaign, Sheridan’s use of fast, aggressive cavalry allowed him to penetrate Confederate lines, raid supply depots, destroy rails and mills, and keep Early off balance. This mobility blocked the Confederates from sustaining their forces and reinforced the Union ability to mass superiority where it mattered. The unity of command ensured these raids and maneuvers were integrated with infantry actions, producing coordinated blows that culminated in decisive victories, most notably when rapid, combined action turned back Early’s incursions at key moments.