Why the Civil War Lasted So Long

Once Grant was given control of the entire army it didn't. He and Sherman and Sheridan pulverized the Confederate States and quickly. It is grievous that the war could have been about as short as most people thought it would be with the right generals in place. Deary me. Four years and half a million killed. The commander in chief and the U.S. military have never seemed to get this straight: If you are going to war, go! Don't pussyfoot around.