Lincoln and the Triumph at Vicksburg

Simultaneous with Gettysburg, the Union victory at Vicksburg on July 4, 1863, marked another major achievement under Lincoln’s leadership. Led by General Ulysses S. Grant, the capture of Vicksburg gave the Union control of the Mississippi River, splitting the Confederacy in two. Lincoln praised Grant’s determination, calling him “the right man in the right place.” The success strengthened Lincoln’s confidence in Grant, leading to his later appointment as commander of all Union forces. Together, Gettysburg and Vicksburg became symbols of Lincoln’s steadfast resolve to preserve the Union and end slavery.