A map shows the battlefield of the siege of Vicksburg. The Mississippi River is the western boundary of the city. A single railroad line cuts through the city running east and west. Confederate forces led by General Pemberton nearly surround the city in a semicircle on the north, east, and south sides. Union forces led by General Grant form a larger semicircle surrounding both the city and the Confederate forces.

Look at the map carefully. Which of the following choices best describes why the capture of Vicksburg was so significant for the Union?

(1 point)
Responses

the city's distance from other battlefields

the city's distance from other battlefields

the city's large military population

the city's large military population

the city's status as a major railroad hub

the city's status as a major railroad hub

the city's location on a river

the city's location on a river
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1 answer

The capture of Vicksburg was significant for the Union primarily because of the city's location on a river. Vicksburg was situated on the Mississippi River, which was a critical transportation and supply route. Controlling the river allowed the Union to divide the Confederacy and enhance their logistics and troop movement throughout the western theater of the Civil War.