 Angered by Britain’s interference in the nation’s affairs, the United States went to war. Help !

 Britain really did not want to go to war with the United States.  They were already involved in a war with France.  Wars are expensive. $$$$  The War of 1812 is divided into 2 phases.

 England focuses on its war with France.  After defeating France, Britain focuses its energy on the U.S.  War officially ends with the Treaty of Ghent.

United States  Army- less than 7,000 men.  Navy- 16 ships  Experience- poorly trained and equipped. Britain  Army- 48,163  Navy- War Ships: 11 Frigates: 34 Other vessels: 52  Experience- Highly experienced. Recent war with France has toughened many soldiers.

 The most important battle took place on Lake Erie.  Oliver Hazard Perry took control of the U.S infant fleet.  Defeated British attempts at controlling the lake.  “We have met the enemy and they are ours.”- Commodore Perry

 Battle of the Thames- General Harrison defeats British forces in Canada.  Ends British threat in the Northwest.  Chief Tecumseh dies in battle while fighting on the British side.

 Britain sets up blockade 1812  Britain captures Washington D.C. and burns down the White House  General Jackson defeats the British in New Orleans-1815

 After defeating Napoleon in 1814, Britain turns its attention to the U.S.  Francis Scott Key wrote the Star Spangled banner during the British attack on Fort McHenry.  White House

 British navy is defeated during the Battle of Lake Champlain, September  Treaty of Ghent is signed on December 24, It ends the War.

 Unaware of the peace, Andrew Jackson's forces moved to New Orleans, in late 1814 to defend against a large-scale British invasion.  Jackson defeated the British at the Battle of New Orleans on January 8, with over 2000 British casualties and fewer than 100 American losses.  It was hailed as a great victory, making Andrew Jackson a national hero  The British gave up on New Orleans, when news of peace arrived on Feb. 13 they sailed home.

 Treaty of Ghent ends war, leaving no clear winner.  No territory changed hands. Trade disputes were not resolved.  Proved that the U.S. could hold its own against the mighty British military.