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The War of 1812
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James Madison is sworn in as President
James Madison had a strong victory over Federalist Charles C. Pinckney to win the presidency. Madison was the fourth president of the United States, succeeding Thomas Jefferson, whose Republican party Madison also belonged to. During his first term, he allowed trade with Britain and France, much to the dislike of the "War Hawk" Republicans. Madison eventually won a second term, and led the Americans in the War of 1812. -
Macon's Bill #2 was signed
On May 1, 1810, Macon's Bill #2 was signed into law by President Madison. This bill was a revision of one put forth by Representative Nathaniel Macon. It replaced the Non-Intercourse Acts, and opened trade with France and Britain. If either country would respect America's neutral rights, America would stop trading with the other. America ended up trading with France only, as Britain continued to impress sailors. -
Congress declares war on Great Britain
Many people thought going to war with Great Britain would be the only way to defend national honor and force repeal of the Orders in Council. -
USS Constitution and United States win naval victories
The US was unable to put together a large navy in the short amount of time, but the few ships they did have were modern and strong. The American frigates held the center stage for a brief moment, as they were able to gun down some British vessels. Captain Isaac Hull of the USS Constituition brought down the Guerriére and Captain Stephen Decatur brought down the Macedonian on the USS United States. -
Captain Oliver Hazard Perry destroys British fleet in Battle of Lake Erie
The British controlled Lake Erie and threatened communications with with General Harrison, making it impossible for him to recapture Detroit. President Madison then assigned Captain Oliver Hazard Perry to challenge his force. He built a fleet and then proceeded to destroy British vessels in a bloody battle. -
Battle of the Thames
Detroit was controlled by the Americans and the British / Native Americans also lost this battle, which occurred northeast of Detroit. Tecumseh was killed and Natives began to lose the will to fight without him. But, this was as far as the Americans got to invading Canada, as they were stopped at Fort Niagara and could not take Lake Ontario. -
Burning of Washington D.C.
British took troops from Bermuda and sent them to take the capital. The British overran the defending American army and set fire to most public buildings, including the White House. -
The Star Spangled Banner
Francis Scott Key was taken hostage on a British ship during the British attempt to seize Baltimore, after attempting to free a taken doctor. He watched the battle as the British attempted to take Fort McHenry. Key wrote down all the chaos he saw, which eventually was drafted into the US' national anthem, 'The Star Spangled Banner.' -
The Treaty of Ghent
The negotiations of the treaty took a long time and were very frustrating. The British believed they could get the Americans to Give up the Northwest territory and points along the Canadian border to the Indians. They also made no concessions when it came to the issue of impressment. But the Americans refused to give up any territory. Finally, the British agreed to sign the treaty, leaving things in The United States the way they were before the war. -
The Battle of New Orleans
This event would not have happened if it weren't for better communication. British gathered an army in Jamaica in 1814. Andrew Jackson led the Americans to victory due to his toughness and determination, as well as well disciplined soldiers. He and his mens attacked the British by surprise while they were waiting for reinforcements. The British continuously tried to make Jackson's men fall back, but they held their ground for 2 weeks. But Jackson was successful.
