Naval Campaigns of the Civil War - by Paul Calore (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This analysis of naval engagements during the War Between the States presents the action from the efforts at Fort Sumter during the secession of South Carolina in 1860, through the battles in the Gulf of Mexico, on the Mississippi River, and along the eastern seaboard, to the final attack at Fort Fisher on the coast of North Carolina in January 1865.

This work provides an understanding of the maritime problems facing both sides at the beginning of the war, their efforts to overcome these problems, and their attempts, both triumphant and tragic, to control the waterways of the South. The Union blockade, Confederate privateers and commerce raiders are discussed, as is the famous battle between the Monitor and the Merrimack.

An overview of the events in the early months preceding the outbreak of the war is presented. The chronological arrangement of the campaigns allows for ready reference regarding a single event or an entire series of campaigns. Maps and an index are also included.

Review Quotes

"the writing is clear, the research thorough, the balance between narrative and analysis sound. The maps constitute a particularly strong asset"-Booklist; "two excellent early chapters treat the organization of both Union and Confederate navies, as well as shipboard life, pay, and living conditions...well written"-North & South; "a creditable job"-The Civil War News; "fascinating subject...worthy"-The Civil War Courier; "excellent"-The NYMAS Review; "a compelling analysis of naval engagements during the Civil War"-Civil War Book Review; "highly informative, easy to read, and easy to understand"-Civil War Campaigns.

About the Author

Paul Calore has written on the causes of the Civil War, as well as books about its naval and land campaigns. He is a supporting member of the Civil War Preservation Trust, and lives in Seekonk, Massachusetts.