What did European powers think of the American Civil War? Did the American civil war have any consequences for the European Economy? How did the American Civil War shape future European wars?

by CheesyHotDogPuff

Pretty much what the title says. I'm interested as to the impact of the American Civil War in European history. Thanks!

DuxBelisarius

[Did any WWI Commanders study the American Civil War before the war?] (http://www.reddit.com/r/AskHistorians/comments/34w68v/did_any_of_the_world_war_one_commanders_study_the/)

I've given an answer that should help with 'How did the ACW shape future European Wars?'

shortcut789

Europe had grown a dependence on cotton from the American south. When the war broke out and the Confederate ports were blockaded, the Europeans had to look elsewhere for their cotton. Their new source was from the Middle East, specifically Egypt. This not only gave the Europeans more economic options, but it bolstered the Egyptian economy as well.