What marked the Union's first major victory in the Civil War?

The capture of Fort Henry is recognized as the Union's first major victory in the Civil War, occurring on February 6, 1862. This battle was significant because it opened up a pathway for Union forces to penetrate deeper into the Confederate territory along the Tennessee River. The successful assault not only boosted Northern morale, but it also represented a strategic gain, as it established control over crucial waterways that were essential for the transportation of troops and supplies. Furthermore, the victory at Fort Henry led to the subsequent capture of Fort Donelson, enhancing the Union's presence in the western theater of the war. The other battles mentioned, while important, occurred later or represented different contexts within the broader conflict.