Union Victory at the Battle of Westport
October 23rd, 1864
October 23rd, 1864

How Long Ago?
160 years, 4 months, 20 days ago
Location
Kansas City, Missouri, United States
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
American Civil War
People
- Sterling Price
- Samuel R. Curtis
Links & References
Tags
Union Victory at the Battle of Westport
The Battle of Westport was a major confrontation during the American Civil War, which took place in October 1864 in the vicinity of Kansas City, Missouri. The Union forces, commanded by Major General Samuel R. Curtis, faced off against Confederate General Sterling Price's army. This battle marked the last significant engagement west of the Mississippi River, culminating in a decisive Union victory. The Union's success effectively ended Confederate attempts to gain control in the region, solidifying their dominance in the western theater of the war.
Last major battle west of the Mississippi
Union victory led by Major General Curtis
Diminished Confederate influence in the West
Part of Price's Missouri Expedition
What Happened?
The Battle of Westport was fought from October 21 to October 23, 1864, in what is now Kansas City, Missouri. It was part of Confederate General Sterling Price's campaign to capture Missouri and bolster morale among Southern sympathizers. Price had previously achieved some initial successes in the region but faced a formidable Union force led by Major General Samuel R. Curtis. The battle was significant as it represented the last major Confederate offensive in the West. The Union troops were well-prepared, utilizing superior artillery and strategic positioning to their advantage. As the two armies clashed, intense fighting ensued, particularly around the Little Blue River where Union soldiers were able to hold their ground against Confederate assaults. The culmination of this engagement saw Curtis's forces pushing back Price’s troops, resulting in heavy losses for the Confederates. With approximately 30,000 men in the field, the Union forces succeeded in driving Price's army out of Missouri and into retreat. This confrontation decisively impacted Confederate military efforts in the region, leading to the eventual decline of their influence in the West and the security of Missouri for the Union.
Why Does it Matter?
The Battle of Westport is notable as it marked the conclusion of significant Confederate military actions in the western theater of the American Civil War. It not only diminished the Confederate's ability to wage war in that area but also highlighted the effectiveness of Union strategy in dealing with insurrection across the United States. The battle reaffirmed Union control and set the stage for future operations against Confederate forces in the remaining two years of the war.
Discover More Historic Events from October 23rd
Myanmar Air Force Strikes Concert in Hpakant Township
A series of airstrikes by the Myanmar Air Force targeted a concert in Hpakant Township, Kachin State, resulting in the deaths of at least 80 individuals, including high-ranking officials of the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO). The concert, organized by KIO, aimed to celebrate an ethnic festival but ended in chaos and destruction due to the unexpected military action. Eyewitness accounts and reports highlighted a significant loss of life and serious injuries among attendees.
Continue ReadingXi Jinping Begins Third Term as Leader
Xi Jinping was elected as the General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party following the 20th National Congress held in Beijing. This event marked the beginning of his third consecutive term, solidifying his power within the party and country. The Central Committee convened to confirm the election, emphasizing Xi's significant influence in shaping China's domestic and foreign policy. The proceedings highlighted Xi's focus on core party values and strength in governance, resonating with the party's priorities moving forward.
Continue ReadingCeasefire Agreed in Second Libyan Civil War
The Second Libyan Civil War formally ended with a ceasefire agreement reached by the 5+5 Joint Libyan Military Commission. This agreement was a major step toward peace in Libya, culminating from extensive negotiations aimed at stabilizing the country after years of conflict. The commission, consisting of equal numbers from the conflicting governmental factions, facilitated dialogue that brought both sides together to agree on disarming and stopping hostilities. The signing of the ceasefire marked a pivotal moment in Libya's quest for unity and peace.
Continue ReadingEnd of the Marawi Siege Declared
Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced the end of the Siege of Marawi, signaling a significant victory against ISIS-affiliated militants. The siege, which began five months earlier, saw intense clashes in the city of Marawi, leaving destruction and casualties in its wake. This declaration aimed to restore normalcy and security in the region, highlighting the Philippines' commitment to combat extremism and restore peace.
Continue ReadingHurricane Patricia Strikes Mexico with Record Winds
Hurricane Patricia reached landfall on the Pacific coast of Mexico, registering the lowest sea-level pressure ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, alongside the highest non-tornadic sustained winds. The hurricane caused significant devastation, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 individuals and damages exceeding $280 million. Its rapid intensification to an unprecedented category 5 storm prompted widespread evacuations and a state of emergency across the affected regions, including the states of Jalisco and Colima.
Continue ReadingLibyan National Transitional Council Declares Victory
On this day, the Libyan National Transitional Council (NTC) declared the end of the Libyan Civil War following the death of former leader Muammar Gaddafi. The NTC announced that the conflict, which had spanned several months, resulted in the successful rebellion against Gaddafi's four-decade rule. This declaration was made in the city of Benghazi, where the uprising initially began, indicating a significant turning point for Libya. The NTC aimed to establish a new government and restore security in the country while inviting international support for its rebuilding efforts.
Continue Reading