Re: Sheridan vs. Lee
There was light resistance by the Confederates, who retreated when flanked. Sherman's men, fueled by alcohol, shelled and burned about one third of the city. See:
http://www.columbiacvb.com/docs/Sherman%20for%20Web%20landscape2.pdf
Also, Atlanta was surrendered in September, and burned by Sherman in November, as a prelude to his march to the sea. Stan