![]() ![]() The early history of New Orleans was one of uninterrupted growth. Approaches to New Orleans, Department of the Gulf Map Number 5, February 14, 1863. Map depicting Louisiana and approaches to New Orleans as depicted during the Civil War. The prompt surrender of the city had saved it from serious damage, so it remains notably well-preserved today. Banks, who somewhat improved relations between troops and citizens, but military occupation had to continue well after the war. Looting by troops was also rife, though apparently not with Butler’s approval. One citizen was hanged for tearing down the US flag, and any woman insulting a Federal soldier would be treated as a prostitute. The new military governor, Major General Benjamin Butler, proved effective in enforcing civic order, though his methods aroused protest everywhere. After running the last of the Confederate batteries, they took the surrender of the forts, and soon afterwards the city itself, without further action. In April 1862, the West Gulf Blockading Squadron under Captain David Farragut shelled the two substantial forts guarding each of the river-banks, and forced a gap in the defensive boom placed between them. Its location near the mouth of the Mississippi made it a prime target for the Union, both for controlling the huge waterway and crippling the Confederacy’s vital cotton exports. New Orleans, Louisiana, was the largest city in the South, providing military supplies and thousands of troops for the Confederate States Army. Historical status during the Civil War Panoramic view of New Orleans, with Federal fleet at anchor in the river, ca. ![]()
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