Why would the Union focus on blockading the port of Savannah during the Civil War? Select two

1 answer

The Union focused on blockading the port of Savannah during the Civil War for several strategic reasons:

  1. Strategic Location and Supply Line Disruption: Savannah was a key port for the Confederacy, serving as a major supply line for troops and resources. By blockading Savannah, the Union aimed to cut off supplies, disrupt the flow of goods, and weaken the Confederate war effort. This would hinder the ability of Confederate forces to receive essential materials, reinforcements, and transport agricultural products, significantly impacting their operational capabilities.

  2. Control of the South's Economy: The port of Savannah was vital for the export of cotton and other goods, which were crucial to the Southern economy. By blockading the port, the Union sought to undermine the economic foundations of the Confederacy. Reducing the Confederacy's ability to trade goods for money or supplies would further weaken their economy and diminish their capacity to sustain the war.

These two reasons—disruption of supply lines and control over the Southern economy—were key objectives in the Union's overall strategy to defeat the Confederacy.