![]() NPS Photo Gibraltar of the Confederacy.Confederate President Jefferson Davis remarked, "Vicksburg is the nailhead that holds the South’s two halves together.” At the start of the Civil War, Confederates controlled the Mississippi River south of Cairo, Illinois all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. With it's valuable commercial port and railroad hub, the city was of tremendous importance. From points west of the Mississippi River, men, food, salt, and weapons, funneled through Mexico, made their way to Vicksburg and Confederate armies in the East. The story of Vicksburg is vast. Please use the following pages to explore more about is significance.
The People of the campaign for VicksburgExplore the specifics and personal stories of the individuals who were affected by the brutality of war in Vicksburg. Read about the soliders, commanders, civilians, and how the war affected women and African Americans in the region. There are great resources here for research into specific troops, commanders, and individuals.Monuments and CommemorationQuickly after the siege ended, both Union and Confederate veterans began planning how to remember the sacrifices of the battle. Today, Vicksburg National Military Park is home to over 1,300 monuments, tablets, and markers, earning the title of The largest Outdooor Art Gallery in the World.
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Last updated: July 26, 2019