In the last months of 1861, Gideon Welles found himself in need of a leader to take the fight to the very gates of New Orleans. He had few options, few naval leaders with the skill, daring and reputation to undertake this task. in the end, he finally selected David Glasgow Farragut. Join as we explore Farragut’s history, his own family’s tangled legacy with New Orleans, and the battle that reshaped the war along the Mississippi River.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uscivilwar.substack.com