Yesterday I had the chance to visit the site of the bloody fight for Vicksburg, MS, and the control of the Mississippi River during the Civil War. The Mississippi River was strategic for the flow of farm and manufactured goods up and down the Ohio and Missouri Rivers, as well as the upper Mississippi River. When the Confederates blocked the river to Union traffic at Vicksburg, a consideraable advantage went to the South to win the war. By July 4th, 1863, General Grant was able to starve out the city and take control of the Mississippi River. Combined with the Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania at the same time, the tide was turning toward a Union Vistory.
What a shame so many people had to suffer and die because some "leaders" could not compromise!!
Warmest regards, Gus
