THE BATTLE OF JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI: May 14, 1863

Comprehensive account of the Battle of Jackson during the Vicksburg Campaign. Jackson was a vital transportation and communications hub and a major industrial center. Its fall would remove vital logistical support for the Southern army holding Vicksburg and block future reinforcement attempts. General Grant turned and made for Mississippi's state capital to confront the growing danger, unaware that Johnston was already planning to abandon the city. The loss of Jackson isolated Vicksburg and set the stage for a major confrontation a few days later at Champion Hill, one of the most decisive battles of the entire war.