The capture of Vicksburg was important for Union forces because it was a key strategic location on the Mississippi River. Controlling Vicksburg would allow the Union to cut off vital supply lines for the Confederate forces and split the Confederacy in half, effectively dividing their military forces. Additionally, capturing Vicksburg would give the Union control over the entire length of the Mississippi River, a crucial waterway for transportation and communication during the Civil War. This is depicted in the image, showing a map highlighting the strategic importance of Vicksburg along the Mississippi River.
