Why were blockade runners used during the Civil War?

Question

to move troops efficiently

bringing needed supplies to the Confederacy

battling the Union Navy

Protecting Savannah and other ports

Answer 1

Blockade runners were primarily used during the Civil War to bring needed supplies to the Confederacy. The Union Navy implemented a naval blockade of Southern ports in an effort to restrict the Confederate states' ability to trade with foreign nations and access crucial supplies. As a result, blockade runners—fast, agile ships—were employed to evade the blockade and bring in essential goods, weapons, food, and other supplies from places like Europe. While these runners were sometimes involved in activities that may support troop movements or other military efforts, their main function was to import critical resources to sustain the Confederate war effort.