Final answer:
The Anaconda Plan was a strategic plan by General Winfield Scott to suppress the Confederacy during the Civil War by implementing a naval blockade of southern ports and capturing the Mississippi River, hence splitting the Confederacy in two. While he faced some criticism, elements of the plan were used throughout the war, contributing to the Union's victory.
Step-by-step explanation:
General Winfield Scott's strategy during the Civil War was known as the Anaconda Plan. The plan aimed to suppress the Confederate rebellion by instituting a naval blockade of southern ports and capturing the Mississippi River, effectively 'squeezing' the South in a manner similar to how an anaconda constricts its prey. This was to cut off the South's ability to trade and to split it into two, thereby weakening its ability to wage war.
While Scott did face some criticism for his plan, as it was seen as too passive and time-consuming, elements of it were implemented throughout the war. The blockade of southern ports was put into effect and progressively tightened, hampering the South's ability to trade for vital supplies. The effort to control the Mississippi River was also undertaken, culminating in the successful siege of Vicksburg by Union General Ulysses S. Grant in 1863. This victory gave the Union control of the Mississippi, effectively splitting the Confederacy, which was a significant step towards the ultimate Union victory.
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