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James Madison's Administration
We already know James Madison as “The Father of the Constitution”, author of the VA Plan of Government, and author of America’s Bill of Rights. After serving as Jefferson’s Secretary of State, it was his turn to be President. James Madison would become the first President to guide America through a Declaration of War! -
The Battle of Tippecanoe (VUS.6)
While Tecumseh's confederation was weakened after the Battle of Tippecanoe, Harrison's fortunes increased as he became known as "Old Tippecanoe." Many years later, he used his reputation as a successful Indian fighter to run for President of the United States. <a href='While Tecumseh's confederation was weakened after the Battle of Tippecanoe, Harrison's fortunes increased as he became known as "Old Tippecanoe." Many years later, he used his reputation as a successful Indian fighter to run for President of the United States' > Read MORE</a> -
War Hawks declare war on Britain (VUS.6b-c)
American War Hawks advocated this declaration of war from Congress because 1) Impressment of sailors on American vessels, 2) British hassling American shipping, 3) British soldiers still occupied forts in the West and were inciting Indians to attack American settlers, and 4) the opportunity to expand land claims into Canada. Madison sent a war message to Congress, which obliged with a declaration of war. Read MORE -
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War of 1812 (VUS.6b-c)
This is sometimes called the Second War for Independence. America protected its economic interests, removed the British from American territories, and was recognized as entitlement to share the Oregon Territory. We gained war heroes who would eventually become Presidents, and the words for our national anthem! -
USS Constitution defeats the Guerriere (VUS.6b-c)
Perhaps the “highlight” for the American Navy in the War of 1812, the ship nicknamed “Old Ironsides” won its first battle of significance. -
Battle of the Thames, Tecumseh killed (VUS.6b-c)
This was a major victory for the US Army, under the direction of General William Henry Harrison (he will be President later) defeated Indian Forces. The most powerful confederation of American Indians was defeated, and their leader was killed. Read MORE -
The Burning of Washington, D.C. (VUS.6b-c)
Ooops – The US did not adequately build defenses for the nation’s capitol, and paid the price. On this day, British troops entered the city and torched most of the government buildings – including the White House and Capitol Building. James Madison and Congress fled the city, barely escaping only hours before the British arrived. Read MORE -
Battle of Ft. McHenry / Defense of Baltimore (VUS.6b-c)
After learning of the embarrassment in Washington, D.C., the city of Baltimore was not going to take any chances. Ft. McHenry, which guarded the port, was bombarded by the British Navy all day and all night. The next morning the shells had to stop – the British could not penetrate the defenses, and the flag over the fort was still flying! “Oh say can you see by the dawn’s early light”… Read MORE -
Hartford Convention begins (VUS.6b-c)
New England wants to secede? If you thought that the Confederacy and the Civil War was the only talk of secession, this will enlighten you. The Federalist strongholds in New England held a meeting to discuss leaving the Union out of disagreements with “Mr. Madison’s War”. Fortunately the war ended before they got too carried away with themselves! Read MORE -
Treaty of Ghent officially ends War of 1812 (VUS.6b-c)
America claims this to be a victory in our “Second War for Independence”… Basically, the British agreed to stop hassling our shipping, move the remaining soldiers out of American territory, recognize our fishing rights, and agreed to allow the US to share the land claims in the Oregon Territory. There was increased migration into Florida after this war which would lead to further expansion. Read MORE -
Battle of New Orleans - Jackson crushes British (VUS.6b-c)
Technically, this battle happened after the war had ended, BUT it was a great victory and introduced Andrew Jackson as a military hero. Jackson’s heroic defense of New Orleans against a British attack made him a legend – and ultimately he would capitalize on that status to become President! Read MORE about his famous battle. -
Charter of Second Bank of the United States begins (VUS.6)
Modeled after Alexander Hamilton’s first bank, this was seen as a means of helping to regulate and assist the changing economy of the United States. This bank will serve as a focal point in politics as a new Democratic party will be born under Andrew Jackson who will “declare war” on the Second National Bank!
