Neil P. Chatelain Livres

The Confederate Navy's struggle to defend the Mississippi River during the Civil War is highlighted through the story of the CSS McRae. Originally a Mexican ship, it was repurposed as a commerce raider but remained on the river due to circumstances. The narrative details the challenges faced in building a navy from scratch, including converting steamers into gunboats and constructing ironclads. The McRae played a significant role in key battles, particularly in the defense of New Orleans in April 1862, showcasing the naval efforts of the Confederacy.

The narrative explores the lesser-known Civil War campaigns along North America's borders, focusing on the struggle for control over valuable mineral resources and transportation routes. As the Confederacy aimed to seize gold and silver reserves, U.S. forces fought to protect their economic interests and territorial integrity. This involved expelling Confederate forces, engaging with Indigenous populations, and promoting settlement. The U.S. Navy played a crucial role in safeguarding key ports and coordinating intelligence efforts, highlighting the strategic importance of this conflict.

Most studies of the Mississippi River focus on Union campaigns to open and control it, while overlooking Southern attempts to stop them. This is the other side of the story--the first modern full-length treatment of inland naval operations from the Confederate perspective.