In some respects, it was a silly little war -- fought between creaking sailing ships and inexperienced armies often led by bumbling generals. It featured a tit-for-tat " You burned our capital, so we'll burn yours ," and a legendary battle unknowingly fought after signing of a peace treaty. In the retrospect of two centuries of American history, however, the War of 1812 stands out as the coming of age of a nation. (Borneman p.1)
the War of 1812 has at times been called the second war for American independence. The end of the American Revolution in 1793 didn't end hostile feelings between the United states and Britain; and in fact, conflict between France and the British was to continue and would begin to affect America. In order to get sailors for their large Navy that were planning attacks against France, the British would raid American vessels to gain their cargo and force the crews to fight for the British navy. The English control of the seas and her violation of American rights and interference with American trade with Europe led President Madison to call for war.
On June 1, 1812, President James Madison made the case for war against Great Britain in a confidential letter to Congress. Emphasizing British Violations of American maritime rights, Madison argued that such acts not only insulted the United Sates but Jeopardized American independence . Sixteen days later Declared war on Great Britain. Although it was a victory for Madison and the War Hawks, the vote was close-- only 61% in favor - the lowest support for a declaration of war in American history. (Brodie et al, p.14 )
Another term for the War of 1812 was "Mister Madison's War". (NPS handbook, p. 53) President Madison was not eager to led the nation into war; however the British insults to the U.S. and their Navy attacks and raids threatened America's independence.
Most of the conflicts that occurred were either at sea or in areas of the U.S. where the British could use their naval power, such as the coasts and Great Lakes on the Canadian border. As the British would raid into America, the Americans would attack into Canada. So the battles were often small but very personal and fierce. Ultimately the British decided to escalate their attacks to include burning the Capitol, Washington D.C. in Aug. 24-25 1814.
Fun Fact: The British commanders helped themselves to the Presidents supper, then they burned the White House! however Dolly Madison magiged to save the china, silver, and priceless portrait of George Washington.
Another term for the War of 1812 was "Mister Madison's War". (NPS handbook, p. 53) President Madison was not eager to led the nation into war; however the British insults to the U.S. and their Navy attacks and raids threatened America's independence.
Most of the conflicts that occurred were either at sea or in areas of the U.S. where the British could use their naval power, such as the coasts and Great Lakes on the Canadian border. As the British would raid into America, the Americans would attack into Canada. So the battles were often small but very personal and fierce. Ultimately the British decided to escalate their attacks to include burning the Capitol, Washington D.C. in Aug. 24-25 1814.
Fun Fact: The British commanders helped themselves to the Presidents supper, then they burned the White House! however Dolly Madison magiged to save the china, silver, and priceless portrait of George Washington.