Army of West Mississippi facts for kids

The Army of West Mississippi was a special group of soldiers in the Union Army during the American Civil War. This army fought in the western parts of the war. It was very similar to another group called the Army of the Gulf. The name changed when it became part of the Military Division of West Mississippi. This division was led by Major General Edward Canby.

What Was the Army of West Mississippi?

This army was created in 1865. It was a key part of the Union forces in the western theater of the war. Its main job was to help control important areas. The army played a big role in the final stages of the conflict.

How Did the Army Form?

After a difficult fight called the Red River campaign, General Nathaniel P. Banks left the army. Command of the Department of the Gulf then went to General Stephen A. Hurlbut. However, the soldiers in this area, who were part of the Army of the Gulf, did not see much fighting.

In August 1864, some units from this department helped in a land attack. This attack was part of the Battle of Mobile Bay. General Gordon Granger directly led these troops.

When Did the Army of West Mississippi Fight?

In 1865, two important groups of soldiers, the XIII Corps and XVI Corps, moved to a new area. This area was called the Military Division of West Mississippi. General Canby was in charge of this division. He decided to call these fighting forces the Army of West Mississippi.

This army fought in two major battles. These were the Battle of Spanish Fort and the Battle of Fort Blakely. Later, General Canby became the commander of the entire Department of the Gulf. At that point, the soldiers went back to being called the Army of the Gulf.

Who Led the Army?

The main commander of the Army of West Mississippi was:

• Major General E.R.S. Canby (in 1865)

Important Battles

The Army of West Mississippi took part in these key battles:

• Battle of Spanish Fort (led by Canby)
• Battle of Fort Blakely (led by Canby)