McPherson recounts how the Union navy's blockade of the Confederate coast, leaky as a sieve in the war's early months, became increasingly effective as it choked off vital imports and exports. Meanwhile, the Confederate navy, dwarfed by its giant adversary, demonstrated daring and military innovation.

Mobilizing for war -- Establishing the blockade -- We've got New Orleans -- The river war in 1861-1862 -- The Confederacy strikes back -- Nothing but disaster -- A most signal defeat -- Unvexed to the sea -- Ironclads, torpedoes, and salt, 1863-1864 -- From the Red River to Cherbourg -- Damn the torpedoes.