The Battle of Hampton Roads was a major what?

The Battle of Hampton Roads was a significant naval battle that took place during the American Civil War on March 8-9, 1862. It is particularly notable for being the first meeting in combat of ironclad warships, most famously the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia (formerly known as the USS Merrimack). This battle marked a turning point in naval warfare, as it demonstrated the effectiveness of ironclad ships over traditional wooden vessels, leading to changes in naval ship design and tactics.

The context of this battle emphasizes its naval nature, as it directly involved ships and naval strategies rather than ground forces or political maneuvers. The victory and tactics seen during this battle would have lasting impacts on how naval engagements were conducted in future conflicts, further solidifying its significance in maritime history.