Which of the following was a major component of the Union's Anaconda Plan?

The major component of the Union's Anaconda Plan was indeed the strategy to utilize naval blockades against the South. The Anaconda Plan, devised by General Winfield Scott at the onset of the Civil War, aimed to suffocate the Southern economy and military efforts. The naval blockades were intended to prevent the Confederacy from receiving supplies, arms, and trade goods from foreign nations or other states.

By cutting off these vital supply lines, the Union hoped to weaken the South economically and diminish their ability to sustain the war. This component was crucial because it directly targeted the Southern states' resources and their capacity to maintain their war efforts.

The other options do not reflect the primary goals of the Anaconda Plan. Capturing Richmond was indeed a strategic objective, but it was not the overarching strategy that defined the plan. Encouraging Southern secession was not a goal of the Union; rather, the Union sought to preserve the nation. Lastly, providing support for Confederate forces is contrary to the Union's objectives, as the Union was focused on defeating the Confederacy, not aiding it. Thus, the naval blockade stands out as a fundamental tactic within the Anaconda Plan itself.