The War of 1812
The second war between England and America
Impressment
The British did not respect American power. Britain captured the ships of the Americans again and kidnapped the sailors. While America declared neutrality, neither Britain or France accepted neutrality. This was highly offensive to America as an independent country so this helped the US fight back against the British and prove themselves as an independent country in the war of 1812
Embargo of 1807
Jefferson wanted to avoid war so he proposed an embargo. An embargo is an official on trade. The Embargo Act of 1807, also known as the "damn-bargo," is where America stopped all trade with Europe. This kept American ships safe and also avoided war. Even though this was a good result of the Embargo Act there was also a bad result. Without European trade, the American economy suffered.
"War Hawks" elected
A war hawk is a person who clamors for war. The war hawks wanted war against Britain. In 1810, new "War Hawk"conversion from the south and west were elected. The south was angered because Britain had damaged their trade with Europe. The West blamed Britain for Indian attacks on the frontier.
Native American Attacks
Americans violated the treaty of Greenville and moved into Indian land. The Indians were armed by British troops to attack Americans. These British troops were still in western forts.
Effects of the War of 1812
How it effected the economy
Factories were growing during the war and America depended less on British manufacturing.
How it effected politics
William Henry Harrison and Andrew Jackson became hero.
Federalists looked unpatriotic after the Hartford convention and "died out."
How it effected foreign relationships
America had become a world power
How it effected culture
America entered a period of nationalism and turned from Europe and looked west to expand. America created a unique culture distinct from Europe.
British Forces attack Washington
In august 1814, a British fleet sailed into Chesapeake Bay. They landed troops within marching distance of Washington D.C. The British easily entered the city unopposed and dispersed the poorly trained militia defending the capital. The British then set fire to the White House and the Capitol.
Fighting at New Orleans
Britain wanted to capture New Orleans and the Mississippi river to cut off trade. The battle of New Orleans was lead by Andrew Jackson, who was a nationalist, and became a national hero. This also inspired nationalism throughout the country.
Battle of Baltimore
The British Navy was stopped at fort McHenry while trying to attack Baltimore