In Louisiana, the Union launches an ambitious offensive to seize the strategically-vital city of New Orleans - the Confederacy’s largest port and most populous city. But to reach New Orleans, the Union Navy must first punch a hole through the city’s outer defensive fortifications guarding the mouth of the Mississippi River: Forts Jackson and St. Philip. Leading this daunting task is Flag Officer David Glasgow Farragut, who begins making plans for his Western Gulf Blockading Squadron to break through the forts and reach New Orleans.