I think Sherman's March to the Sea damaged the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta the most.

Sherman took pride in the damage to South Carolina,He burned Columbia and then trashed Charleston with reckless abandon.The solders where given a "free hand" at destroying the seat of rebellion.Some solders made chants about Andersonvile prison as they marched and looted.

True,Georgia as a state suffered as a whole but Atlanta was a military target created by the war.There looting to the sea can still be seen in satilite images today.But South Caroina was targeted for retribution.

Atlanta was burned badly. But, if you look at photos of Richmond or Petersburg in Virginia, you'll see almost complete and utter destruction. Your novel interests me...I'm writing a "novel" as well. It centers around a main character and his best friend who both come of age right about the time that the war starts. Adventure is what they were in search of...and they find it...or will. Please keep us all posted about your story.

Without a doubt South Carolina. In Georgia there was some loose restraint but in South Carolina the gloves came off. It was done with malice and intent.