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.