The Confederate States Navy was the naval branch of the military forces of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War (1861-1865). Established in 1861, it aimed to protect the Confederacy's coastline and waterways from the Union Navy. The Confederate Navy operated a variety of ships, including ironclads, commerce raiders, and blockade runners. Despite being smaller and less industrialized than the Union Navy, the Confederate Navy achieved notable successes, such as the famous battle between the ironclads CSS Virginia and USS Monitor. The navy faced challenges, including limited resources and blockades, which ultimately hindered its effectiveness in the war.