Lithograph entitled and captioned: "The splendid naval triumph on the Mississippi, April 24, 1862. Destruction of the Rebel gunboats and Iron Clad batteries by the Union Fleet under Flag Officer Farragut." The capture of New Orleans (April 25 - May 1, 1862) during the American Civil War was an important event for the Union. Having fought past Forts Jackson and St. Philip, the Union was unopposed in its capture of the city itself, which was spared the destruction suffered by many other Southern cities. This capture of the largest Confederate city was a major turning point and an incident of international importance. The Confederate fleet at New Orleans "made a sorry showing. Self-destruction, lack of co-operation, cowardice of untrained officers, and the murderous fire of the Federal gunboats reduced the fleet to a demoralized shambles." David Glasgow Farragut (July 5, 1801 - August 14, 1870) was a flag officer of the United States Navy during the American Civil War. He was the first rear admiral, vice admiral, and admiral in the United States Navy. He is remembered in popular culture for his order at the Battle of Mobile Bay, usually paraphrased: "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!"