Ironclads

Definition

Ironclads were heavily armored warships that were used during the Civil War. These ships were made of iron and had a sloping armor design to protect them from enemy fire.

Related terms

Monitor: The Monitor was one of the most famous ironclad ships used during the Civil War. It had a rotating turret with powerful cannons.

Merrimack: The Merrimack (also known as CSS Virginia) was another well-known ironclad ship that fought against the Monitor in the first battle between ironclads in history.

Naval Blockade: As a result of advancements in naval technology such as ironclads, naval blockades became an effective strategy during the Civil War. A blockade involved preventing ships from entering or leaving certain ports or coastlines to weaken enemy supply lines.