#17 Role of Foreign Powers

Nicholas Oliveira

Russian Role- Supported the union throughout the war- Most likely because it was Britain's main competitor- Stationed a fleet in American waters for part of the war- Sale of Alaska occurs just after the civil war though

Russiahad been attempting to sell it before the war began

English and French Role- Both powers remained officially neutral during the war- The Confederacy hoped that Britain and France would

intervene in their favor because of their need for cotton

- This never occurred (Obviously) Neither power wanted a war in America

- Britain stepped up cotton production in India

Bahamas

-- Used as a base by Confederate blockade runners-- Nassau becomes a haven for smugglers/pirates (again)-- Brings a lot of money to the island-- Goes to build a nice hotel for visiting Americans-- Most of it (the money) leaves once the war ends

Conclusion- Overall, no meaningful foreign intervention

occurred- Still several instances when it appeared very likely

that it might- Even if no intervention occurred the possibility of

intervention changed decisions made throughout the war

SourcesBahamas in the American Civil War. (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2014, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bahamas_in_the_American_Civil_WarUnited Kingdom and the American Civil War. (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2014, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom_and_the_American_Civil_WarFrance in the American Civil War. (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2014, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_in_the_American_Civil_WarRussian Empire–United States relations. (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2014, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_Empire–United_States_relations#American_Civil_WarFrance in the American Civil War. (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2014, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_in_the_American_Civil_War