During the Civil War, the Mississippi River became a vital strategic route for Union forces.

The river was a key transportation and supply route, and controlling it was crucial for the Union to cut off the Confederacy's supply lines. In 1863, the Union achieved a major victory with the capture of Vicksburg, Mississippi, which gave them control of the river. This victory split the Confederacy in two and significantly weakened its ability to move troops and supplies. The Mississippi River played a central role in the Union's successful strategy to blockade and disrupt Confederate resources during the Civil War.