What was the main objective of the Anaconda Plan?

The main objective of the Anaconda Plan was to blockade Southern ports and gain control of the Mississippi River. This strategic military plan was proposed by Union General Winfield Scott at the outset of the Civil War. The blockade aimed to constrict the Confederacy’s economic resources by preventing the import of essential goods and the export of cotton, which was vital to their economy.

By controlling the Mississippi River, the Union would effectively divide the Confederacy, making it difficult for Southern states to communicate and supply each other. This dual approach of blockading ports and seizing the river aimed to suffocate the Southern war effort gradually, making victory achievable without the need for a direct and potentially costly invasion of the South.

The other options stray from the primary goal of the Anaconda Plan. For instance, advancing into Canada was not part of the strategy; there was no intention to engage in conflict with Canada. Retreating to northern territories would signify a defensive posture rather than a proactive strategy to win the war. Encouraging foreign aid to the Confederacy was contrary to the Union's objectives, seeking to isolate the South rather than assist it.