Cotton Kingdom, 1833–1865

Black Confederate Pensioners After the Civil War

Theme and Time Period

The service of African Americans with the Confederate army during the American Civil War has long intrigued historians and Civil War buffs. Were these men soldiers or servants? Did they get shot? Why did they serve, and what was the nature of the relationship between Bblack servants and their White masters in uniform? The answers to these questions may never be completely understood, but one thing is clear from a variety of sources: African Americans were an integral part of the Confederate war effort. 

The Government of Mississippi: How it Functions

Theme and Time Period

When Mississippi became a United States territory in 1798, its first government was made up of a territorial governor, a secretary to the governor, and three judges. Washington, Mississippi, served as the territorial capital. That is where the first Mississippi Constitution was drafted and sent to the United States Congress for the territory’s admittance in the Union as a state. On December 10, 1817, Mississippi became the twentieth state, and since then, Mississippi’s citizens and officials shaped state government into what it is today.

The Governors of Mississippi Lesson Plan

OVERVIEW

The Mississippi History Now profiles on Mississippi’s governors offer brief summaries of the personal and political lives of each of the state’s chief executives. Although students usually are aware of the current governor and perhaps can name others who have served in the position, rarely is there enough time in the classroom to permit them a more personal glimpse into the lives of those who have served in the state’s highest elected position. Students can use these gubernatorial biographies in a variety of ways.

Vicksburg During the Civil War (1862-1863): A Campaign, A Siege Lesson Plan

OVERVIEW

By the spring of 1863, the only major city on the Mississippi River still under the control of the Confederacy was the city of Vicksburg. Maintaining control of Vicksburg was essential to the unity of the Confederate states. Confederate troops, as well as Vicksburg citizens, heroically held out for 47 days before surrendering to Union forces. It was during this 47-day siege that the citizens of Vicksburg, while the city was under steady shelling, were forced to live in caves.

The Seafood Industry in Biloxi: Its Early History, 1848-1930 Lesson Plan

OVERVIEW

In the 19th century, a large seafood industry developed on the Mississippi Gulf Coast due in large part to new canning methods, production of commercial ice, financial investors, and the development of the railroad in the region. By the early 1900s, the coastal city of Biloxi became known as the “Seafood Capital of the World.” Workers migrated to the city for seasonal work in the factories, settled in the area, and added to the cultural landscape.

Letter To A Wife On Death Of Her Husband

Theme and Time Period

Return to Mississippi Soldiers in the Civil War

 

Hd. Qrs. Mabry’s Brig.
Camp W Okolona Miss.
July 20, 1864
Mrs. Maj. Robb. C. McCay

With feelings of deepest sorrow I announce to you the death of your husband: Maj. Robert C. McCay 38th Miss. (Mounted Infty.). He was killed in battle at Harrisburg Miss. on the 14th Inst. while gallantly leading his regiment.

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