What were the Union's strengths during the Civil War?

The Union's strengths during the Civil War included superior industrial capacity, larger population, and better infrastructure.

The Union, also known as the North, had a significant advantage in terms of industrial capacity. It was home to most of the country's factories, which were crucial for producing weapons, ammunition, uniforms, and other supplies necessary for war. This industrial strength allowed the Union to equip its soldiers better and maintain a steady supply of resources throughout the war. The North also had a more developed railway system, which was instrumental in transporting troops and supplies quickly and efficiently across vast distances. This gave the Union a strategic advantage, as they could mobilise forces and resources faster than the Confederacy.

In addition to industrial capacity, the Union also had a larger population than the Confederacy. This meant that they had a larger pool of potential soldiers to draw from, which was a significant advantage in a war of attrition. The North's population was about 22 million, compared to the South's 9 million, of which 3.5 million were enslaved Africans who were not eligible to fight. This demographic advantage allowed the Union to sustain heavy losses and still have enough manpower to continue the fight.

The Union also had a more established government and a functioning navy, which were both crucial during the war. The established government provided stability and continuity, which was important in maintaining morale and coordinating the war effort. The navy allowed the Union to blockade Southern ports, cutting off the Confederacy's ability to trade with foreign nations. This blockade was a significant factor in the eventual Union victory, as it starved the South of necessary supplies and weakened their economy.

Lastly, the Union had the advantage of fighting a defensive war. The Confederacy was fighting for independence and needed to win outright to achieve its goals. In contrast, the Union only needed to prevent the Confederacy from succeeding in order to win. This meant that the Union could afford to lose battles and still win the war, as long as they prevented the Confederacy from achieving its objectives. This strategic advantage, combined with the Union's superior resources and infrastructure, played a significant role in their eventual victory.