The Siege of Vicksburg begins as the Union Army of the Tennessee, commanded by General Ulysses S. Grant, surrounds Vicksburg, the last major Confederate outpost on the Mississippi River. After surrounding the fortress city Grant would try several direct assaults beginning on May 19; having been pushed back, the Union Army ensured that no supplies or reinforcements could enter Vicksburg.
Now in its 75th year, American Heritage relies on contributions from readers like you to survive. You can support this magazine of trusted historical writing and the volunteers that sustain it by donating today.
