March 9 in Military History — On This Day

Siege of Veracruz

General Winfield Scott executed the largest amphibious operation in American history to that date, landing 12,000 troops on the beaches south of Veracruz and laying siege to the heavily fortified port city. Naval bombardment and army siege artillery systematically reduced the city's defenses. After three weeks, the garrison of Veracruz surrendered, giving Scott a vital base of operations and supply port for his advance toward Mexico City.

The capture of Veracruz opened the National Highway to Mexico City and demonstrated American capability for large-scale combined arms operations. Robert E. Lee served as an engineer officer here, beginning to earn the reputation for bold reconnaissance that would define his career. The siege established Scott's campaign as the war-winning strategic thrust.

Full battle details →

⚔️📍 Hampton Roads, Virginia1862

Monitor vs. Virginia — World's First Ironclad Battle

The Union's newly arrived USS Monitor battled the CSS Virginia (Merrimack) in history's first fight between armored warships. Neither vessel could penetrate the other's armor, and after four hours both withdrew. It was a tactical draw but a strategic Union victory.

The battle made every wooden warship obsolete and launched a global arms race in ironclad construction that transformed naval warfare permanently.

Outcome

Draw — neither ship sunk; Virginia never threatens Union fleet again