During the American Civil War, control over Savannah, Georgia, was highly strategic for both the Union and Confederate forces due to its location, economic resources, and infrastructure. The city was an important port on the Atlantic coast, and capturing it could significantly impact supply lines and trade.
For the Union, capturing Savannah was part of a broader strategy to cut off supply routes to the Confederacy and to gain control of key coastal cities. Savannah was particularly valuable because it was a vital shipping and transportation hub, facilitating the transport of goods and military supplies. The Union aimed to secure it to bolster their naval blockade and to disrupt Confederate logistics.
The most notable military operation involving Savannah was General William Tecumseh Sherman's March to the Sea in late 1864. After his successful campaign through Georgia, Sherman aimed to capture Savannah to further demoralize the Confederacy and demonstrate the Union's military strength. The capture of Savannah on December 21, 1864, ultimately helped the Union in its efforts to bring an end to the war.
In summary, the control of Savannah was sought due to its strategic significance for transportation, logistics, and its role in undermining the Confederate war effort.