Union Victory at Vicksburg
July 4th, 1863
July 4th, 1863
How Long Ago?
161 years, 8 months, 11 days ago
Location
Vicksburg, Mississippi, USA
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
American Civil War
People
- Ulysses S. Grant
- John C. Pemberton
Links & References
- Confederate States of America
- American Civil War
- Union (American Civil War)
- Ulysses S. Grant
- Mississippi River
- Vicksburg, Mississippi
- Siege of Vicksburg
Tags
Union Victory at Vicksburg
The Confederate army in Vicksburg, Mississippi, surrenders to Union forces under the command of Ulysses S. Grant after enduring a 47-day siege. This pivotal event resulted in the Union gaining control over the Mississippi River, a critical waterway for transportation and supply routes during the American Civil War. The fall of Vicksburg marked a significant turning point in the conflict, as it effectively split the Confederacy and bolstered Union morale.
Siege lasted from May 18 to July 4, 1863.
Controlled Mississippi River post-surrender.
Union forces numbered about 77,000 troops.
Pemberton's troops surrendered with about 30,000 men.
What Happened?
The siege of Vicksburg was a major military action during the American Civil War, taking place from May 18 to July 4, 1863. Ulysses S. Grant's Union army aimed to capture Vicksburg, Mississippi, strategically located on a high bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Control of Vicksburg was essential for the Union to secure its hold over the river and facilitate the movement of troops and supplies. Grant's forces surrounded the city and commenced a campaign of bombardment and blockade, cutting off supplies and reinforcements to the Confederate troops inside. Under the command of General John C. Pemberton, the Confederate defenders faced dire conditions, including food shortages and continuous artillery fire. After 47 days of siege, the city’s defenses collapsed, and on July 4, Pemberton surrendered to Grant. The Union army’s victory at Vicksburg, coinciding with the Confederate defeat at Gettysburg, marked a turning point in the Civil War and showcased Grant’s military strategy and capabilities.
Why Does it Matter?
The surrender of Vicksburg was a watershed moment in the American Civil War. It not only gave the Union control of the Mississippi River but also significantly weakened the Confederate hold on the west. This defeat split the Confederacy in two, hampering their ability to move troops and supplies across the region. The Union victory elevated Ulysses S. Grant's reputation and paved the way for his later appointment as the commander of all Union forces, ultimately leading to the Union's success in the Civil War.
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