riverine operations

Discusses how the use of ironclad and wooden-hulled boats influenced the outcome of the Civil War, and profiles the ships that were used in the major battles fought on the Mississippi river.

McPherson recounts how the Union navy's blockade of the Confederate coast, leaky as a sieve in the war's early months, became increasingly effective as it choked off vital imports and exports. Meanwhile, the Confederate navy, dwarfed by its giant adversary, demonstrated daring and military innovation.