Why did the Siege of Vicksburg affect the balance of power during the Civil War?



The Union gained control of the Mississippi River

It was the deadliest battle in the war, including the deaths of several important Confederate generals

The French joined the Confederacy against the Union after a striking victory

General Grant and his troops were pushed back across the Missouri River

The Siege of Vicksburg affected the balance of power during the Civil War because the Union successfully gained control of the Mississippi River, cutting off a vital supply route for the Confederacy and splitting the South in two. This strategic victory gave the Union a significant advantage in terms of logistics, communication, and troop movements, ultimately weakening the Confederacy's ability to continue fighting. Additionally, the surrender of Vicksburg and its key defenders, including General John C. Pemberton, was a major blow to the Confederate war effort.