War Of 1812 Dbq Essay

The United States nearly lost the War of 1812 as it practically was the demise of America both militarily and politically. The war proved to be difficult for America as the federal government struggled to find financial backers to support the war. “In fact, New England Federalist opposed the war and forbidden their militias from attacking British Canada” (Henretta 216). “America suffered several defeats at the fate of British, Canadian, and Native American troops, including an overwhelming victory that “lead to the capture and burning of Washington, DC” (History.com). However, despite the losses American troops were able resist invasions of New York, Baltimore, and New Orleans, battles that turned the tables in the war. This restored America’s

An American Lawyer, Francis Scott was inspired after the decisive victory in Baltimore. Francis Scott who was already was an author and amateur poet wrote the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner, presently known today as the National Anthem. The war also proved to be successful for some as it launched four men into the presidency – Andrew Jackson, John Quincy Adams, James Monroe, and William Henry Harrison. And to add, it boosted three men into vice-presidency – Daniel D. Tompkins, John C. Calhoun, and Richard M. Johnson. Despite dismal successes in this war, it still boosted the military careers of Generals Andrew Jackson, Jacob Brown, and Winfield Scott. All though their victories did match to previous wars these men “produced a new era of great Generals” (History.com). Today, most average Americans are unclear of the details containing the reasons why the war was fought, or who the United States fought against. Nevertheless, this war considered by many as America’s “second battle for independence” (history.com), the British called it “Mr. Madison’s War” (Hickey). This war really had no clear winner as it ended with the Treaty of Ghent on February 17

In 1812 Congress eventually voted for war. This divided both the House and Senate as they were utterly divided on the issue. The only conclusion both sides could agree upon was there was no diplomatic or peaceful solution to end the conflict. As America was hurt economically they had no alternative but only to support a war against Britain. After two years of an ensuing war with the United States and a 20 year war with France, Britain had depleted its money and energy. Britain began peace negotiations with the United States. At first, the United States wanted land in Canada, Florida, for Britain to forgo its impressments, and efforts for an “Indian State in the northwest” (History.com). Both sides concluded that the “objectives were not worth the cost of a prolong warfare” (History.com). The United States retained its prewar boarders and the Treat of Ghent was signed on December 24, 1814 ending the