War of 1812

The War of 1812 was a military conflict fought between the United States and Great Britain, with fighting also involving British North America and Indigenous allies.

The War of 1812 was a military conflict between the United States and Great Britain, fought from 1812 to 1815. It involved British North America and Indigenous allies, and ended with the Treaty of Ghent restoring prewar boundaries.

What it is

The war began when the United States declared war on Great Britain on June 18, 1812. Major causes included British trade restrictions, impressment of American sailors, and frontier conflict with Indigenous nations. The fighting took place across multiple theaters, including the Great Lakes, Atlantic coast, and Gulf Coast.

Key details

Notable events include the burning of Washington, the Battle of Baltimore, the Battle of the Thames, and the Battle of New Orleans. The Treaty of Ghent was signed on December 24, 1814, and ratified by the U.S. Senate on February 17, 1815. It restored conquered territory and ended the war without resolving underlying disputes.

Why it matters

The war influenced national identity in both the United States and Canada. In Canada, it is remembered as a key conflict in the defense of British North America and helped shape Canadian historical identity. The war also affected U.S. politics and military planning.