blockade runners (naval)

Blockade runners were ships that attempted to evade naval blockades—military operations that aim to prevent vessels from entering or leaving certain ports. During conflicts like the American Civil War, these ships would transport goods, weapons, and supplies to areas under blockade, defying the restrictions imposed by the opposing navy. Blockade runners were often fast, maneuverable vessels designed to slip past blockading forces, and they played a crucial role in sustaining trade and support for besieged regions. Their success depended on stealth, speed, and knowledge of sea routes to avoid detection.