Why didn't William Sherman burn Savannah?

William Sherman chose not to burn Savannah during his infamous March to the Sea primarily because he recognized the city's strategic value and its significance as a port. Upon capturing Savannah in December 1864, he aimed to preserve it for the Union, believing that its infrastructure could serve the war effort. Additionally, Sherman wanted to show a degree of mercy and goodwill, hoping to encourage a quicker end to the war and to facilitate a peaceful transition for the South.