Bombardment of the Selee River Forts facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Bombardment of the Selee River Forts
Part of the United States expedition to Korea
Date June 1, 1871 Location Ganghwa Island, Yellow Sea, Joseon Modern day: Ganghwa Island, Yellow Sea, South Korea Result American victory; Beginning of the Battle of Gangwha
Belligerents
United States	Joseon
Commanders and leaders
Unknown	Unknown
Strength
2 gunboats	Unknown
Casualties and losses
2 wounded 1 gunboat damaged	2 forts damaged

The Bombardment of the Selee River Forts, also called the Bombardment of Ganghwa, was a quick but important battle. It happened on June 1, 1871, between the United States Navy and the forces of Joseon (which is now Korea). This event was part of a larger American trip to Korea. The goal of the American trip was to try and make trade agreements with the Joseon government.

This fight started when Korean forts attacked American warships. This attack made the relationship between the two countries much worse. The Americans then fought back in what became known as the Battle of Ganghwa. This was a punitive action, meaning it was a punishment for the earlier attack on the American ship, the USS Palos.

What Happened During the Bombardment?

On June 1, 1871, two American gunboats were sailing near Ganghwa Island. These ships were supporting a larger American expedition. Suddenly, forts on the shore, controlled by Joseon forces, opened fire on the American ships.

The American ships quickly fired back at the forts. This exchange of fire was intense but short. The American ships were stronger and better armed. They managed to damage the Korean forts.

Why Did This Conflict Occur?

The United States sent an expedition to Korea in 1871. Their main goal was to open up trade routes. They also wanted to make sure shipwrecked sailors would be treated well. At this time, Joseon had a policy of being very isolated. They did not want to trade or have contact with other countries.

The American ships were exploring the area. They were trying to find a safe way to reach the capital city. The Joseon forts saw the American ships as a threat. They believed the ships were invading their territory. This misunderstanding led to the attack on the USS Palos and the other American ship.

What Was the Result?

The Bombardment of the Selee River Forts was an American victory. The Joseon forts were damaged, and the American ships showed their strength. However, this battle did not help with the original goal of making peace and trade agreements. Instead, it made things worse.

The American forces decided they needed to punish Joseon for attacking their ships. This led to a bigger fight known as the Battle of Ganghwa. This larger battle happened a few days later. It was a direct result of the bombardment.

See also

In Spanish: Bombardeo a los Fuertes del Río Selee para niños