- Blockade the Confederate coast: The Union navy was much larger than the Confederate navy, so the Union blockaded the Confederate coast in order to prevent the South from importing goods. This was effective in cutting off the South from supplies and made it difficult for the Confederate army to operate.
- Control the Mississippi River: The Mississippi River was a vital transportation route for the South, so the Union controlled the river to prevent the South from moving supplies and troops.
- Capture Richmond, Virginia: Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy and was located in the center of the Confederacy. If the Union could capture Richmond, it would be a major blow to the Confederacy and could lead to the end of the war.
Confederate strategy for winning the war:
- Defeat the Union armies in battle: The Confederate army was smaller than the Union army, so the Confederates relied on winning battles in order to gain ground and demoralize the Union army.
- Wage a guerrilla war: The Confederates also waged a guerrilla war against the Union army. Guerrilla warfare involved small groups of soldiers attacking the Union army from unexpected places. This was effective in disrupting Union supply lines and made it difficult for the Union to control the South.
- Gain recognition from foreign countries: The Confederates hoped to gain recognition from foreign countries, which would give them diplomatic and financial support. This would make it more difficult for the Union to win the war.