Pro-Union sentiment in North Georgia causes many problems for the government. Desertions from the Confederate Army increase dramatically as North Georgia falls under Federal control. A peace movement in the western part of the state gains popularity in 1864. Cherokee and Pickens counties remain strong Union outposts throughout the war. The story was much different in Northeast Georgia.
Anarchy prevails over much of the land.
Armed men on horses control large amounts of the area. Governor Brown occasionally sends cavalry into the area, but they are largely ineffective. Shortly before William Tecumseh Sherman 's March to the Sea , the Union general communicates a peace offer to Brown on three separate occasions. Surrender the Georgia Militia and the men under his command will stay on the roads and purchase food. Brown feels the situation is hopeless and nearly capitulates.