The main strategy of the Confederacy was to defend its territory and outlast the Union.

Confederate leaders believed that by prolonging the war, they could erode Northern resolve and ultimately secure independence. This defensive approach aimed to protect Southern land and resources while leveraging the South's familiarity with the terrain to their advantage. Additionally, the Confederacy sought to encourage European nations, particularly Britain and France, to recognize its sovereignty and provide support, largely due to their reliance on Southern cotton. This strategy emphasized resilience, hoping that Northern fatigue would lead to a negotiated peace.