The Battle for Vicksburg (1863) was a pivotal campaign in the American Civil War, centering on control of the Mississippi River. Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston aimed to reinforce the beleaguered forces of Lieutenant General John C. Pemberton, who was trapped in Vicksburg by Union forces under Major General Ulysses S. Grant. Vicksburg was strategically significant for both sides, as its capture would sever the Confederacy and enable Union control of the Mississippi River. Grant laid siege

Want to learn more about the Vicksburg Campaign but don’t know where to start? Watch our animated map of Vicksburg to learn more about the strategic importance of this city along the Mississippi River and why its capture was a turning point for the Union Army. The video also details the Battle of Port Gibson, Battle of Champion Hill, Lt. Gen. John C. Pemberton’s surrender, and more. | American Battlefield Trust