The Monitor National Marine Sanctuary was established to protect the remains of the USS Monitor, which notably fought in the Civil War during the Battle of Hampton Roads in 1862. This ironclad ship, designed with a revolutionary turret, marked a pivotal moment in naval warfare. After sinking in a storm off the coast of North Carolina in 1862, the site of the Monitor became an important underwater cultural heritage site. The establishment of the sanctuary on January 30, 1975, represented a collaborative effort between various stakeholders, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and local communities.

Through the sanctuary's creation, conservation efforts were intensified to preserve the Monitor's remains, which had been subject to deterioration from both natural forces and human activities. The sanctuary covers approximately 2,400 square miles of ocean area, providing not only a protective barrier around the wreck site but also a framework for research and education concerning marine ecosystems. The designation served as a model for future marine sanctuaries and highlighted the importance of safeguarding both historical artifacts and the health of marine environments.

Marine archaeologists and conservationists have since conducted numerous studies and expeditions to explore the site, providing invaluable insights into both the Monitor and the marine life that flourishes in its vicinity. This sanctuary not only transcends historical remembrance but also fosters public awareness and engagement in marine conservation efforts, thus paving the way for a broader understanding of the fragility of underwater ecosystems and archaeological sites.