Answer:The victories in the west were of great importance for the Union's overall strategy during the American Civil War. The west encompassed the area between the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River, which included the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Missouri, as well as parts of Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
One of the main goals of the Union's overall strategy was to gain control of the Mississippi River, which was a vital transportation route for both goods and troops. The capture of key Confederate strongholds along the river, such as Vicksburg and New Orleans, would allow the Union to control this important artery and sever Confederate supply lines to the west. This would effectively split the Confederacy in two and isolate Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas from the rest of the South.
In addition, the victories in the west allowed the Union to secure important resources such as iron, coal, and other raw materials. The Tennessee River valley was particularly important for the Union's iron production, while the coal mines in eastern Kentucky and Tennessee provided fuel for Union factories and steamships.
The victories in the west also had a significant psychological impact on the war effort. Union victories in the west, particularly at places like Shiloh and Chattanooga, boosted morale and gave the Union momentum at a time when the war was dragging on and the outcome was far from certain.
Overall, the victories in the west were essential for the Union's overall strategy, as they helped to secure vital resources, gain control of the Mississippi River, and boost morale among Union troops and civilians.
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