1. The War of 1812

2. Causes The British practice of Impressment The Chesapeake incident British were giving arms to Native Americans in the western territories War Hawks – young congressmen from the south and west who wanted to declare war on Great Britain. John C. Calhoun and Henry Clay were leaders of this group. President James Madison asks Congress to declare war in 1812.

3. Conduct The U.S. was unprepared for war and lost many battles early in the war. Admiral Perry defeated the British Navy on the Great Lakes. British burn Washington DC Battle of Baltimore is a major U.S. victory – Star Spangled Banner is written. Battle of New Orleans – greatest U.S. victory. Andrew Jackson becomes American hero. Battle was fought after war was actually over.

4. Consequences Treaty of Ghent – 12/24/1814; fighting ends. Series of later agreements settled issues that led to war with Great Britain. (trade reopens, naval forces reduced on Great Lakes, boundary set between U.S. and Canada at the 49 th parallel) Death of the Federalist Party – Hartford Convention in days just before decisive victory at New Orleans condemned the war and stated the desire of New England states to seek separate peace with Great Britain or secede and join Canada. Combined with Hamilton’s death this spelled the end for the party.

5. The War of 1812 is often called the second war for American Independence. Based on what you have learned about the war do you agree or disagree with this statement? Explain your answer.