The Union navy and army enforced a blockade to weaken the Confederate economy and gained control of the Mississippi River to divide the South, advancing Steps 1 and 2 of the Anaconda Plan.
During 1862-1863, the Union navy and army implemented the Anaconda Plan by enforcing a blockade to restrict supplies to the South, thereby crippling the Confederate economy (Step 1). Additionally, Union forces worked on gaining control of the Mississippi River, effectively splitting the South in two (Step 2). This strategic approach hindered the Confederacy's ability to operate effectively and receive crucial resources.