The Mississippi River and all its tributaries was the heart of commerce and the lifestyles for both northern and southern citizens at the beginning of the war. Once the southern states along the great river seceded the Mississippi River was closed, cutting off a vital artery to the northern way of life.

The military authorities on both sides new the value of the river and from the outbreak of war each was preparing to take control of it.Southern forts and batteries were built along strategic points of the river to stop any threat of naval passage. Northern military experts new that in order to regain control of the river new ships would have to be built. These new ships would be required to engage confederate shore batteries blow to blow while also fighting the strong currents of the Mississippi. Naval engineers designed an ironclad river boat for this task.

The new river warship was a fairly simple design. Since most of its fighting would be done head on, iron plates were attached to its front hull for added protection. The wider body of these boats made it possible to have more cannons on the front and back giving them increased firepower for these head on engagements. Rams made of wood or iron were also attached to the front of each boat adding to the combat power of these ships.

Awkward in their appearance, these new ships proved to be a valuable asset in the joint army – navy campaigns for the next several years. Their firepower aided in the capture of every confederate fort and battery along the Mississippi River.
 

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