Why do you think Sherman did not accept African Americans as political equals?

Sherman likely did not accept African Americans as political equals due to prevailing societal attitudes and racial prejudices of his time. Many white leaders, including Sherman, were influenced by the deeply entrenched beliefs in white superiority and the fear of social upheaval that could arise from granting full political rights to African Americans. Additionally, Sherman's military background may have shaped his views on loyalty and citizenship, leading him to question the readiness of African Americans for political participation in a post-Civil War society.