The Mississippi River has a long and storied history, stretching back to pre-colonial times when Native Americans relied on the river for trade and transportation. In the years following American independence, the river was key to the US economy, with the Union eventually establishing control over the Mississippi.
The Union’s control of the Mississippi dates back to the early 19th century, with the Treaty of Paris, which saw the newly formed United States gain possession of the Louisiana Purchase from France. In 1803, the US government sent an expedition down the Mississippi to establish borders, and in 1807 President Thomas Jefferson declared the river a national asset.
As the 19th century progressed, the Mississippi became a focal point of the War of 1812 and the US Civil War, both of which saw the Union gain increasing control over the river. During the War of 1812, the Union blocked any access to the river from British and Canadian forces, while during the Civil War, the Union was able to sever any supply lines to Confederate forces using the river.
The Union’s control of the Mississippi was further bolstered by the construction of numerous locks and dams along the river, which enabled the Union to control shipping and transportation on the Mississippi. These locks and dams also enabled the creation of a connected network of waters, rivers and streams, allowing for faster and easier transportation of goods.
In addition to this, the Union used gunboats to patrol the Mississippi, and established military forts along the river to maintain its control. This military presence also provided the Union with a significant strategic advantage, as the Mississippi is the largest river in the United States, extending from Minnesota in the North to Louisiana in the South.
By the end of the 19th century, the Union had firmly established its control over the Mississippi, and the river continues to be an important artery for the US economy. The Union’s control of the Mississippi allowed for the transportation of goods and people throughout the United States, making it an essential part of the country’s development.
Industrialization and Commercialization
The Union’s control of the Mississippi had a significant impact on the industrialization of the United States. As transportation along the river became more efficient and reliable, industries such as coal mining, lumber, and other manufacturing flourished. Additionally, cities along the Mississippi, like Memphis and New Orleans, were able to capitalize on the river’s economic benefits, turning those cities into major commercial hubs.
Furthermore, the Union’s control over the Mississippi enabled the development of a connected network of waterways for transportation, making it easier for companies to access and transport goods to different parts of the US. This, in turn, helped to grow and strengthen US industry as businesses could transport raw materials, finished goods, and essential products quickly and safely along the Mississippi.
Environmental Impact
The construction of dams and locks along the Mississippi has had a significant environmental impact on the river. The dams and locks have altered the flow of the river, affecting the natural ecology of the river, with some species becoming endangered as a result. Additionally, the dams and locks have caused disruptions to the flow of sediment, affecting the flooding cycle, which is essential for restoring biodiversity in the area.
In response to these issues, the US government has taken steps to protect the river’s ecosystem by reducing the level of human intervention on the river, including reducing river traffic and improving the quality of water released into the river.
Furthermore, the Union’s control of the Mississippi has also enabled the development of infrastructure designed to protect the environment, such as the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, which is designed to prevent flooding and erosion of land along the river.
Political Influence
The Union’s control of the Mississippi has also had a significant political impact on the US. The river has often been used as a tool for political power, with the Union taking steps to limit access to and from the river for its enemies. This allowed the Union to exert its influence in the region and maintain order.
The control of the Mississippi also created a new form of political order and unity between different states, as transportation via the Mississippi connected the states and allowed them to cooperate economically. This increased sense of unity helped to bring the various states together, while also promoting American expansionism.
Cultural Impact
The Union’s control of the Mississippi also had a significant cultural impact on the United States. As transportation and trade along the river progressed, different cultures, ideas, and beliefs began to intersect and come together. This allowed for the exchange of goods and services, and the sharing of culture, thus creating a new, hybrid culture.
The cultural influence of the Mississippi is still seen today, with the river playing an important role in various forms of art, literature, music, and folklore throughout the United States. Additionally, many of the cities and towns located along the river are still home to cultural festivals and events that embrace the river’s heritage.
Economic Impact
The Union’s control of the Mississippi has had a significant economic impact as well. As transportation and trade along the river became easier and more reliable, cities and towns located along the river experienced an economic boom. Industries like shipping, transportation, and tourism were able to prosper, while businesses and manufacturers were able to access the resources and goods needed to produce their products.
The influence of the Mississippi can also be seen in the modern day, as the river still plays a crucial role in the US economy. The river is still an important artery for transportation and trade, and is essential to the region’s economic growth.
Conclusion
The influence of the Union’s control over the Mississippi is still felt to this day. By gaining control of the river, the Union was able to exert its influence over the region and solidify its rule, while also enabling economic and cultural progress. The Union’s control over the Mississippi has had a lasting effect on the United States and its people, and its influence can still be seen across the country.
