Nathaniel P. Banks receives orders assigning him to command the Federal Department of the Gulf, operating mostly in Louisiana and Texas. Banks would eventually succeed the controversial Benjamin F. Butler.

Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
Nathaniel P. Banks receives orders assigning him to command the Federal Department of the Gulf, operating mostly in Louisiana and Texas. Banks would eventually succeed the controversial Benjamin F. Butler.
Jefferson Davis issues an executive order authorizing the execution of Federal officers caught using slaves for military purposes against the Confederacy.
Benjamin F. Butler, commanding Federal occupation forces in New Orleans, uses dubious legal proceedings to make an example of a citizen for dishonoring the U.S. flag.
Commanding the Federal occupation forces in New Orleans, Benjamin F. Butler issues an order that solidifies his infamous reputation among southerners.
Benjamin F. Butler arrives with his Federal troops to impose military rule over New Orleans.
David G. Farragut tries to end the standoff between his Federals and New Orleans officials by threatening to bomb the city if she does not surrender. Meanwhile, Federal occupation troops are on the way.