'Petersburg, Va., Sept. 1864, 13-Inch Mortar Dictator (U.S. Civil War)' The title refers to a specific artillery piece used during the American Civil War, particularly in the Siege of Petersburg in September 1864. The 'Dictator' was a large 13-inch mortar manufactured by Rodman & Adams, a prominent American arms manufacturer during that period. This weapon, capable of firing heavy explosive shells over long distances, played a significant role in the siege of Petersburg, Virginia, a critical strategic point for both Union and Confederate forces. The Dictator's immense firepower helped shape the tactics and outcome of this prolonged military engagement during the final stages of the Civil War.