Abstract: A plethora of historical research has been conducted from a military aspect about this engagement, but less has been conducted from an environmental aspect. This paper views water as a historical actor alongside humans, to uncover the role that the coastal landscape played in the siege, from Union batteries fighting targeting blockade runners in February up until Fort Pulaski’s final battle in April.

Abstract: During the Civil War, it was perceived that the Union's superior industrial and financial advantages helped it win. This paper argues that the Union instead won based on strategic planning from Union generals, a commitment to fight and end slavery from the Union soldiers, and the arrival of the competent General Ulysses S. Grant, with whom Lincoln could work.