Hidden Influence
Ready — When we think of military leadership during the United States Civil War, names like Lincoln, Grant, and Sherman dominate the discussion. But behind the scenes, one woman, Anna Ella Carroll, shaped Union military policy with a strategic mind that deserves recognition.
Set — A Maryland-born writer and political advisor, Carroll was loyal to the Union. Though not a soldier, she understood war, strategy, and politics. What made her unique? She saw what others missed.
She Spotted the Logjam: The Union was bogged down trying to advance down the Mississippi. Carroll saw this frontal approach as a bloody, slow-moving disaster.
She Proposed a New Route: After touring the Western front, she advised a shift in focus to the Tennessee River, a strategic waterway cutting deep into Confederate territory. This plan became the foundation of the Union’s successful Western Campaign.
She Influenced Lincoln’s Cabinet: Though unofficial, Carroll wrote military memos and policy suggestions. Her ideas were shared with Secretary of War Edwin Stanton and President Lincoln.
She Sacrificed for the Cause: Carroll asked for no military commission or recognition. Her motivation was the preservation of the Union, not personal glory.
She Was Forgotten: Her influence was not known for many years. But later historians recognized her writings as instrumental in the Tennessee River campaign, an approach that helped turn the tide of war.
Grow! — Carroll never led troops into battle. But she shaped the course of military action from behind the curtain. Sometimes the most effective leaders aren’t the ones giving orders but the ones whispering wise strategy to the right people in the right places. Anna Ella Carroll was one of them.
Two Questions
Who are the hidden influencers in your organization?
Are you open to good ideas regardless of whom they come from?