Historical Events tagged with "union navy"
Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.
USS Cairo Sinks in the Yazoo River
The USS Cairo, a Union ironclad warship, sank on the Yazoo River after being hit by a torpedo, one of the first such attacks in naval warfare. The vessel was part of the Union's campaign to take control of the Mississippi River. Hit just after it had engaged Confederate forts, the Cairo's sinking marked a significant moment in the advancement of naval technology and warfare tactics, emphasizing the increasing role of mines in maritime conflicts.
Continue ReadingCSS Arkansas Battles Union Navy Vessels
The CSS Arkansas, a powerful ironclad ship, engaged in combat against Union Navy vessels led by Admiral David Farragut. This clash took place on the Mississippi River and resulted in significant damage to three Union ships while the Arkansas also sustained severe damage during the fierce confrontation. The battle showcased the effectiveness of ironclad vessels in naval warfare.
Continue ReadingRobert Smalls Steals Confederate Gunship
Robert Smalls, an enslaved African American, executed a daring escape by commandeering the Confederate steamer and gunship USS Planter. With his crew and family aboard, he navigated through Confederate lines to deliver the ship to Union forces in Charleston, South Carolina. His bravery and intelligence in a perilous situation not only exemplified extraordinary courage but also marked a significant moment in the Civil War. Following this act, Smalls would go on to be appointed as captain of the ship, a noteworthy achievement in American history.
Continue ReadingUnion Defeats Confederate Mosquito Fleet
A Union naval flotilla achieved a significant victory by destroying most of the Confederate Mosquito Fleet during the Battle of Elizabeth City, fought on the Pasquotank River in North Carolina. The engagement was a strategic move aimed at securing control over the waterways. This battle marked an important step in the Union's efforts to blockade the South, as the Mosquito Fleet was formed to counter Union naval advancement in the region.
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