OVERVIEW OF THE WAR OF 1812
 “The 2nd War of Independence.”
 Rooted in deteriorating Indian relations
 As well as deteriorating European relations
 Some say it created “An American Nationality.”
 Congress approved war by the smallest margin of any war declaration in
American history.
 A two front struggle: against the British and Indians.
 U.S. successfully defended the Great Lakes region and Baltimore harbor with
a weaker Navy.
 “Star Spangled Banner.”
 Treaty of Ghent, 1814 ended the predominantly naval war.
 Battle of New Orleans took place AFTER the signing of the Treaty in Ghent.
 Andrew Jackson, major hero of the war.
 American Nationalism plays lead role in the decline and end of the Federalist
Party.
 Napoleon is defeated soon after, creating a long period of peace both in
Europe and with American/European relations.
 Focus for the U.S.A. is now firmly on the “frontier” with little to no European
influence.
FOR DISCUSSION:
How much actually changed between Europe and the U.S.A.
based on The War of 1812? (“to what extent”)