13 Forgotten "Ghost Fleets": Ship Graveyards Around the World

6. The Ironclads of the American Civil War

The American Civil War marked a turning point in naval warfare, with the introduction of ironclad ships that changed the face of naval combat. The wrecks of these ironclads, such as the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia, serve as important historical artifacts, providing insight into the technological advancements and strategic innovations of the time. These ships were revolutionary in their design, with iron armor and steam-powered engines that rendered traditional wooden ships obsolete. The wreck of the USS Monitor, discovered off the coast of North Carolina, is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Civil War engineers. The ship's innovative design, including its rotating turret, set the standard for future naval vessels. The CSS Virginia, originally the USS Merrimack, was transformed into an ironclad by the Confederate Navy and played a pivotal role in the Battle of Hampton Roads. The remains of these ships, along with other Civil War-era wrecks, provide a tangible connection to a defining moment in American history.