The War of 1812: Key Points

Background

• At the start of the 19th century, Great Britain was engaged in prolonged conflict with Napoleonic France.
• Both nations tried to prevent the United States from trading with the other.
• The Royal Navy impressed American seamen from U.S. merchant ships, forcing them into British service.
• Napoleon suggested he would lift restrictions, prompting President James Madison to block trade with Britain in November.

Build-up to War

• New Congress members, led by Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun, pushed for war due to British violations of maritime rights and their support of Native American resistance against U.S. expansion.
• Pressure from "Warhawks" led President Madison to declare war on Britain on June 18, 1812.

Key Battles and Events

• American forces targeted Canada, a British colony.
• Mixed battle outcomes until Napoleon's defeat in April 1814 allowed Britain to focus on the U.S.
• British captured Washington D.C. on August 24, 1814, burning key government buildings.
• Battle of Plattsburgh (Sept 11, 1814): American navy defeated British fleet.
• Battle of Fort McHenry (Sept 13, 1814): Fort withstood British bombardment, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write a poem that became the "Star-Spangled Banner."
• British withdrew from Chesapeake Bay, planning an attack on New Orleans.

Conclusion of the War

• The Treaty of Ghent was signed on December 24, 1814, officially ending the war.
• Battle of New Orleans (January 8, 1815): Unaware of the peace treaty, British forces attacked but were defeated by Andrew Jackson's army.
• Treaty ratified on February 17, 1815, ending hostilities.

Aftermath

• The War of 1812 was celebrated in the U.S. as a "second war of independence."
• Initiated a period of national pride and political unity.

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