Monument / MemorialVicksburg National Military Park

This was one my most fun learning expirences.

To start with it was very accesible. I stayed in a motel that is about half a kilometer from the entrance to the park. I simply unloaded my bicycle from the car and road it up the hill to the entrance to the park. It was a little harder getting back as the road is the main highway between Vicksburg and Jackson, the state capitol. It was perfect. At that time if one rode a bike to do the tour the entrance fee was waived. I am not sure if this policy is still in effect. Normally the rate is $8 a person or $25 for a car load up to six persons.

The main strategy for the Union was to split the Confederacy. By 1863 the Confederacy was straining. One of the main hopes was for the intervention of either the French and/or British, but what was needed was a major victory. This would show the soundness of the investment to the British and French. May through July would prove pivital to the course of the war.

In the east General George Meade was in charge of the Army of the Potomac (promoted late in June). Ulysess S. Grant was the general in charge in the west for the Union.

After several attempts Grant was finally able to surround the Confederate forces under the command of General John Pemberton who was from the North. The siege was started in May. Gradually Grant moved closer and closer to the fortifications, constantly pounding the Confederate forces until they were forced to surrender on the fourth of July 1863.

As a result the Union strategy was working. The South was split and the Union forces controlled the Mississippi River. At the same time Meade defeated General Robert E. Lee at Gettysburg on July 3, 1863.

These two defeats so closely together denyed the Cofederacy the victory they needed. The British and French both elected not to intervene in the war.

Vicksburg was the last bastion on the Mississippi to fall. It's loss was particularly painful for the people of Vicksburg. The timing of the surrender was delibrately chosen by Pemberton so he could gain the best possible terms. However it imbittered the citizens, the July 4 holiday (celebration of American independence from Britan) was not celebrated for over 80 years.