The Resignation of General Sherman

A Reflection on Governance, Law, and Society in Mid-19th Century California

Major General William T. Sherman resigned from his position in the Governor's Army due to his disagreement with the use of the Vigilance Committee and the lack of support from Governor Johnson in arming the militia. Sherman believed in using legal methods to address issues in society and felt his views did not align with those of the Governor, prompting his resignation.

The article titled "Resignation of Gen. Sherman" details Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman’s resignation from his position in the military appointed by Governor Johnson amid a fraught political climate characterized by unrest and the actions of the Vigilance Committee in California. The article presents Sherman as a military leader caught in a web of conflicting loyalties and practical considerations during a turbulent period in American history, specifically the 1850s, a decade marked by increasing sectional tensions and social upheaval.

Sherman’s decision to resign can be understood within the broader context of the rise of vigilante groups during this era, particularly in California, where the Vigilance Committee arose as a response to perceived corruption and ineffective law enforcement. In his resignation letter, Sherman articulates his position on the matter, stating, "I think I have already said and done enough to convince all that I am not an advocate of the Vigilance Committee." This statement reflects his ambivalence towards the vigilantism that was sweeping the country, indicating a preference for legal and orderly methods of addressing societal issues rather than the extrajudicial actions that the Vigilance Committee employed.

Furthermore, the nature of Sherman's relationship with Governor Johnson is brought into sharper relief as he outlines his efforts to support lawful measures. He mentions that he "had received the orders of the Governor to organize the Militia to aid the Sheriff in the execution of his duty," implying his alignment with official state authority. Sherman's commitment to the preservation of law and order contrasts with the Vigilance Committee’s methods, as he emphasizes the need for "some legal mode" to address the societal disruptions. His statement, "I have at all times endeavored to calm the public excitement; I have counselled moderation and forbearance," points to his attempts to navigate a delicate situation while confronting the escalating violence and chaos.

However, Sherman's frustration is palpable when he recounts the unanticipated shift in Gen. Wool's willingness to provide military support, illuminating the institutional complexities that hindered his mission. He observes, "It is no longer a secret that when the written requisition was made, Gen. Wool had changed his mind, and had discovered that he had not the legal power to grant the request." This revelation underscores the challenges leaders faced in mobilizing resources in a legally ambiguous environment, highlighting the breakdown of civil governance and the reliance on military force.

Ultimately, Sherman's resignation is portrayed as a principled stand against a system that no longer aligned with his values or methods. He articulates a sense of duty to allow Governor Johnson "the opportunity to select some representative...whose ideas were more consonant with his own," hinting at a desire for both leadership and military strategy that aligned with the governor's approach to civil unrest.

In summary, Sherman’s resignation reflects the instability of mid-19th century America, where individuals in positions of authority grappled with the effectiveness and morality of vigilantism amid escalating civil tensions. His statements knit together a narrative of a leader advocating for lawful obedience and stability during a time when chaos seemed to reign, embodying the complexities that characterized both his personal convictions and the larger societal conflicts of his era.

 The Resignation of General Sherman: A Reflection on Governance, Law, and Society in Mid-19th Century California

When Major General William Tecumseh Sherman resigned as the head of the California Militia in July 1846, the implications stretched far beyond a simple administrative shift. This pivotal moment exposed deep societal tensions and underscored the fraught relationship between law enforcement and civilian governance in a burgeoning American West rife with conflict and uncertainty. Sherman's resignation not only marked a significant chapter in both military and political history; it also provided a compelling lens through which to view the broader dynamics at play in the turbulent landscape of mid-19th century California.

Contextual Backdrop: California in the Mid-19th Century

The years leading to 1846 were transformative for California, driven largely by the discovery of gold in 1848, which sparked an influx of settlers from across the United States and beyond. This era was marked by a collision of diverse legal, social, and cultural ideologies as new populations settled in a territory once dominated by Indigenous peoples and foreign powers. The clash of these varied influences and tensions created a fertile ground for conflict, exemplified by the rise of Vigilance Committees, which emerged as a response to escalating lawlessness.

At the heart of this tumult was a breakdown of order. California's rapidly growing population, driven by the Gold Rush, exacerbated existing issues, including rising crime rates, insufficient law enforcement, and the emergence of competing political factions. Faced with public grievances regarding crime and corruption, citizens often resorted to extralegal measures, organizing vigilante committees that operated outside the boundaries of official law enforcement.

 The Resignation of General Sherman: A Personal Perspective

Sherman's resignation on July 7, 1846, was more than just an administrative act; it was a response to the turbulence that characterized California at the time. In a revealing public letter, he articulated his disillusionment with the state of governance, emphasizing his steadfast commitment to legal methods over mob justice. He asserted, "I think I have already said and done enough to convince all that I am not an advocate of the Vigilance Committee; and whilst I would have contributed my assistance to expel from our midst all rowdies, ballot box stuffers, and shoulder strikers, it would only be by the application of some legal mode."

A Commitment to Legal Authority

Sherman's unwavering commitment to lawful governance stood in stark contrast to the growing appeal of vigilante justice during this tumultuous period. His insistence on utilizing legal means to tackle societal challenges reflected his belief that there existed “some legal mode, which I believe does exist” to address California's myriad issues. Despite his efforts to rally law-abiding citizens in support of lawful enforcement, he found his hands effectively tied by systemic failures that persisted around him.

Central to Sherman's resignation was the struggle for authority. As he attempted to organize the militia to support the Sheriff in restoring order, he faced significant obstacles. “It is no longer a secret that when the written requisition was made, Gen. Wool had changed his mind, and had discovered that he had not the legal power to grant the request." This young nation grappled with the complexities of civil-military relations, a struggle that remains relevant today. Sherman's experience highlights the ongoing challenges faced by military leaders when their directives confront bureaucratic constraints—a tension that continues to resonate in modern contexts.

 The Role of the Governor

Sherman’s resignation also illustrated the growing rift between local governance and military authority in California. His departure symbolized a fracture between Governor Johnson’s administration and the realities of military command—a disconnect that, in Sherman's view, jeopardized effective law enforcement. “I was forced to conclude that these moderate counsels did not coincide with the views of Gov. Johnson,” he remarked. This comment captures the essential tension between governance and military action that defined an era.

Governor Johnson's reliance on Sherman highlighted how leadership roles often demanded a delicate navigation of the competing interests of the civilian populace and military command. This dichotomy was not unique to California; similar tensions echoed across the emerging American frontier, where leaders had to balance the aspirations for order against the stark reality of rampant lawlessness.

 Broader Societal Implications

The ramifications of Sherman's resignation extended far beyond the military and political spheres, marking a significant shift in societal attitudes toward law enforcement. Disillusioned by governmental ineffectiveness, many citizens increasingly turned to alternative forms of justice, as Vigilance Committees emerged and operated largely unchecked. This trend laid the groundwork for a culture of extralegal violence and vigilantism that would continue to shape American society.

Moreover, Sherman's resignation calls to mind enduring challenges in the struggle for legal order—issues that resonate strongly in contemporary discussions surrounding policing, civil rights, and the balance of power between the state and its citizens. The friction between authority and the populace, the debate over vigilantism, and the quest to maintain law and order in a rapidly changing society have created legacies that persist through time.

 The Evolving Identity of California

In shedding light on Sherman's resignation, we also uncover the evolving identity of California itself. Amidst the demographic, political, and social transformations spurred by waves of migration, diverse values, expectations, and approaches to governance clashed—often at odds with one another. As Sherman confronted these complexities, he became emblematic of the broader anxieties faced by those striving to craft a cohesive and lawful society in what was then an uncharted territory.

His resignation was not just a personal struggle; it foreshadowed the ongoing tensions and challenges that would emerge throughout the American West. As leaders navigated the uncertain waters of governance, the implications of their decisions would steer the course of society for generations to come.

 Militarism and Civilian Governance

Reflecting on Sherman’s actions opens up a dialogue about the longstanding debates concerning militarism and civilian governance—issues that are incredibly pertinent to American history. His perspective raises essential questions: What role should military leaders play in civil society? As we analyze the oscillation of these dynamics in contemporary settings, we are confronted with the intricate complexities that pervade our systems of law enforcement and authority amid challenges to social order.

Determining the boundary between law enforcement and vigilantism remains a pressing issue, highlighting the ideals of democracy and governance that Sherman sought to uphold. These ideals resonate deeply in modern discussions regarding systemic reforms, the role of police in society, and the implications of citizen-led justice initiatives.

 Conclusion: The Legacy of a Resignation

In an era defined by rapid change and societal upheaval, Major General William T. Sherman’s resignation serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles inherent in the evolution of civil authority and justice. His steadfast commitment to lawful governance—despite overwhelming challenges—reflects the enduring values that continue to underpin discussions about law enforcement and civic responsibility in contemporary America.

As time passes, the echoes of Sherman's actions resound with urgency, compelling us to confront the extraordinary challenges of integrating order, law, and civic responsibility within our evolving society. His narrative not only memorializes a particular moment in history but also invites us to consider the vital lessons that the past has to offer. Ultimately, the legacy of his resignation transcends time, prompting essential reflections that encourage us to champion a society that strikes a careful balance between justice, authority, and the rights of its citizens—an endeavor as crucial today as it was in mid-19th century California.

Key Phrases:

1. 'Resignation of General Sherman' - This event highlights the interplay between military authority and civil governance. For further reading on civil-military relations, see this article from [The National Interest](https://nationalinterest.org/feature/military-civil-relations-america-existence-justification-and-solution-18635).

2. 'Vigilance Committees' - These committees emerged in response to lawlessness and reflect societal attitudes towards authority. For a deeper understanding, refer to the historical analysis of vigilante movements in America on [The History Channel](https://www.history.com/topics/westward-expansion/vigilante-justice).

3. 'Gold Rush and its societal impacts' - The Gold Rush transformed California and accelerated societal changes. For an overview of its effects, read this article from [PBS](https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/gold-rush-california-gold-rush/).

4. 'Civilian Governance and Law Enforcement' - The relationship between citizens and law enforcement is ongoing and complex. Explore this issue in detail at [Harvard Law Review](https://harvardlawreview.org/2020/06/the-police-and-civil-society/).

5. 'Historical tensions in California's governance' - The governance structure in California faced unique challenges. For an academic review, see this paper from [California History Journal](https://californiahistoricalsociety.org/journal/).

6. 'Militarism and civilian authority' - The tension between military influence and civilian governance remains relevant. Check out this resource on [Carnegie Endowment for International Peace](https://carnegieendowment.org/2020/11/17/militarism-and-civilian-control-in-america-i-0rv4).

7. 'Systemic failures in Governance' - Exploring systemic issues that lead to societal discontent is crucial. For insights on systemic reform, read this report by [The Brookings Institution](https://www.brookings.edu/research/systemic-reform-and-the-future-of-american-government/).

**Citation**: Trinity Journal
- Resignation of Gen. Sherman., 1856-06-14
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive

Original Article:

Maj. Gen. Wm. T. Sherman on the 7th inst at Benicia placed in the hands of Gov. Johnson, his resignation of the office held by appointment from his Excellency for the past few weeks. The Gen. published a card assigning his reasons for resigning the highest position in the GOVERNOR'S ARMY. He says : I think I have already said and done enough to convince all that I am not on advocate of the Vigilance Committee ; and whilst I would have contributed my assistance to expel from our midst all rowdies, ballot box stuffers and shoulder-strikers, it would only be by the application of some legal mode, which I believe does exist, and not by resorting to the organization of a Committee, which in the enforcement of its decrees has been compelled to resist the sworn officers of the law. When, however, the Vigilance Committee had become installed in power, and I had received the orders of the Governor to organize the Militia to aid the Sheriff in the execution of his duty, I did my best to influence and command all good citizens to enroll themselves into companies, promising when a sufficient number were enlisted, provided a necessity still continued, to arm, equip and muster them into the service of the State. I based my promise of arming the enrolled militia on a verbal assurance given to Governor Johnson by Gen. Wool, in my presence, to issue from the United States Arsenal, on a proper requisition, such arms and munitions of war as the emergency might call for. It is no longer a secret that when the written requisition was made, Gen. Wool had changed his mind, and had discovered that he had not the legal power to grant the request. I have at all times endeavored to calm the public excitement ; I have counselled moderation and forbearance, but I was forced to conclude that these moderate counsels did not concide with the views of Gov. Johnson, and, in justice to him, I felt bound to afford him the opportunity to select some representative here whose ideas were more consonant with his own.

 

Echoes of Californian History

History never repeats itself, but it does often rhyme.

 -Mark Twain

Introduction

    California has always been a frontier for European settlers and remains so to this day. While indigenous people had been brilliant stewards of the land for at least 10,000 years (and likely longer than that), it wasn't until the mid-16th century that the Spanish--having recently steamrolled across South America--turned their gaze Northward in search of fabled cities of gold and a Northwest Passage. Starting with Vizcaino's seafaring expedition, they would eventually make it as far North as Cape Mendocino or possibly Southern Oregon before being turned back by perennial bad weather. They would sail right past San Francisco bay several times, the inlet camouflaged as ever by fog. Sailing close to the towering coastline, taking advantage of near-shore ocean currents, always on the lookout for "smokes", the indigenous campfires. It would be two hundred years more until the Presidio was "discovered" and established by the Spanish Missionaries traveling overland. Fur trappers would be some of the first Europeans to establish continuing relations with indigenous tribes.

    I've been perusing the University of California at Riversides' historical newspaper archives in search of some insight into the societal issues of today; racial inequality, housing availability, education, environmental concerns and the like. California newspapers first went into print in 1846, poised to serve the world's voracious appetite for any news of gold on the frontier. In those early days before the advent of the telegraph, before the completion of the Transcontinental rail line, news traveled with the steamers bound from Panama and the overland parties making for San Francisco and Sacramento from points Eastward.

    With this blog I will highlight news items from the early days of California that may help to inform some of the struggles we face today. How did we deal with these problems 175 years ago? California has long been a melting-pot of emigrant and indigenous populations, and equitably portraying the sentiment of every community is complicated by the fact that these newspapers were written, edited and owned primarily by Caucasian men. In my commentary around each article snippet, I will attempt to provide some context that highlights the struggles of under-represented communities, and some global context as well.

Santa Cruz Post Office Circa 1860

Weekly Alta California(San Francisco), 12 July 1849

    https://cdnc.ucr.edu/?a=d&d=WAC18490712

. . . THE TOWN OF SANTA CRUZ. The survey of this Pueblo, one of the oldest in California, has recently been corrected and mapped by Lt. Williamson, U. S. A. It is situated in the Bay of Monterey, and presents more advantages for an agreeable residence than any other in California, for it is well known that at no part of the whole country is the climate purer, water better, soil more fertile, and where so unlimited a supply of lumber and timber for building and fencing purposes can be procured at prices nearly as low as in the United States. The town and planting grounds are laid out in lots of 50 varas square, a large number of which are now offered for sale at very moderate prices by the subscribers. SAN FRANCISCO. Some of the most desirable locations for private residences or business purposes in this town, can be purchased or leased of the subscribers. Maps of the City of New York of the Pacific, the Towns of Sutter, Santa Cruz, and San Francisco can be seen at the Land Office of the subscribers, on Clay street, south side Portsmouth square. 27tf STEVENSON, PARKER & CO.

    The Spanish Missionaries had set up shop in Monterey about 100 years prior to this survey, with intent to make Monterey Bay a shipping hub. The bay proved to be poorly-suited to this task though, being too shallow for many ships to make port. Still, the Missionaries set about their work of converting and subjugating the native population and doling out land-grants to Mexican comrades, many of whom had already been there for a generation. The article snippet above shows the first formalization of the pueblo of Santa Cruz--you could now officially buy property there. While the first newspaper in California had been published in Monterey in August of 1846(in both English and Spanish), it would be another sixteen years before Santa Cruz would have its own newspaper, at a time when the novelty of the Gold Rush was replaced by the existential crisis of the Civil War.                                                                                                                                                                       
    The following was the headline article for the second weekly edition of the Santa Cruz Sentinel, a copy of a lengthy July 4th speech given by a reverend in Watsonville. The speech eloquently makes the case for the Union against the secessionist Confederate Army, and ends with an observation that difficult times are in fact opportunities to temper one's resolve and virtue. I've added emphases to prescient anecdotes, but a thorough reading would be worth the reader's time. The Civil War was ramping up with no clear end in sight. The audience for this speech were almost to a person themselves recent emigrants to California, hailing from all parts of the United States and beyond. If there was one thing in common amongst the populace, it may have been a willingness to take on risk. California itself had legitimate grievances with the Union, as an expansive frontier outpost Federal law was difficult to enforce and people had concerns about Federal efficacy, to include fair representation for the State in the halls of Congress.