Key Events leading to the War of 1812 and the War of 1812

  • Impressment of Sailors

    (Impressment occurred between 1793-1814)
    The British Navy had many job openings, its pay was low, and few were qualified to do a sufficient job. As a remedy, British soldiers infiltrated American ships and surveyed the crew, then kidnapped some of the sailors, then made them serve Britain. This angered the U.S., enough to get involved in the war. Impressment impacted trade in France and Britain, limited America goods from being sold. Issues of diplomacy in the face of provocation were arising.
  • Washington´s Proclamation of Neutrality.

    Washington´s Proclamation of Neutrality.
    Issued on April 22, 1973, Washington´s Proclamation of Neutrality was a formal announcement which ¨declared the nation neutral in the conflict between France and Great Britain¨. This act also proposed punishments for anyone who funded, supported, or participated in the war, as such would increase the risk of America´s involvement. This announcement set a precedent for future foreign policy. Overall, this was a good attempt, but didn´t work, as the U.S. got involved anyway.
  • The Jay Treaty

    The Jay Treaty
    The Jay Treaty was a proposition between America and Britain in order to remain peaceful during times of impending war. This treaty was significant because before America got involved in the war, the country grew economically and stabilized its commerce, solidifying it as an independent country. This treaty was a way to end impressment, but Britain did not respond ideally, so this was a mere delay in the inevitable war.
  • Washington´s Farewell Address

    Washington´s Farewell Address
    Washington´s Farewell Address was a letter written by George Washington. This address was printed in a newspaper, and it stated that Washington will not be runnning for a second term. Washington warned citizens about peace, independence, safety, and liberty. All of these things concern the future of America and how a country should be lead.
  • Chesapeake-Leopard Affair

    Chesapeake-Leopard Affair
    The Chesapeake-Leopard Affair was a ¨naval engagement¨ between the USS Leopard and the USS Chesapeake. After the USS Chesapeake left its port in Virginia, the Leopard intercepted it and asked to search the ship for deserters. James Barron, the leader of the Chesapeake, declined, and the British killed three Americans. The British climbed aboard the Chesapeake and found the deserters they were looking for.
  • The Embargo Act of 1807

    The Embargo Act of 1807
    The Embargo Act of 1807 was a piece of legislation which prohibited the U.S. from pursuing commerce outside of America. since Britain was impressing our sailors, war was impending, and to prevent this, or at least delay it, the U.S. passed the Embargo Act. This act did not make foreign matters any better, in fact, it was notorious for damaging the American economy, crippling industry, hurting business, and making everyday life worse for all citizens.
  • War Hawks

    War Hawks
    The War Hawks were a group of, young, hearty Congressment from the South and Western portion of the U.S. Their vigor to expand their territory motivated them to clamor for war. These politicians created legislation to direct America towards war. These hawks wanted Canada, Florida, and more Western Territory, because of this, they wanted war, to fight for more land and property for the U.S.
  • Tecumseh

    Tecumseh
    Chief of the Shawnee Tribe, Tecumseh saught a negotiation with the American Government. He wanted to prevent continual Western Expansion into the native lands. He and the other natives formed a sort of government, to create a solo Indian state which was self sufficient. All of this failed, and William Henry Harrison attacked the tribes, causing them to retreat and form an alliance with Britain.
  • War of 1812 Begins

    War of 1812 Begins
    Britain had been antagonizing America for 20 years, the British had caused a prevention of trade, and impressed the U.S. Navy. America wanted to expand their nation into Louisiana. So on June 18, 1812, President James Madison declared War on Britain.
  • Tecumseh (II)

    Tecumseh (II)
    In 1812, Tecumseh gathered his remaining soldiers and allied with the British army, which was in Michigan, and his forces are what conquered the Americans at the Siege of Detroit. Tecumseh was instrumental in assisting the British in the War of 1812, but he died on October 5th, 1813, fighting against William Henry Harrison.
  • The Hartford Convention

    The Hartford Convention
    Lasting from December 15, 1814 to January 5, 1815, the Hartford Convention was a place for the Federalist Party (primarily federalists in New England) to list their issues with the War of 1812, Louisiana Purchase, and the Embargo. This convention was a plea to the government to provide aid to New England, their trade damaged. In addition to this, problems were occurring with the Federal Government having too much power. This convention was a part of the downfall of the Federalist Party.
  • Treaty of Ghent

    Treaty of Ghent
    American and British representatives met at Ghent, Belgium to sign a treaty to end the war. Rules of the treaty were as follows. ¨All conquered territory was to he returned¨, and there was to be a boundary between Canada and the U.S.
  • The Battle of New Orleans

    The Battle of New Orleans
    The Battle of New Orleans was won by America, and this victory helped swing the war towards America´s favor. The British tried to conquer a crucial American port, and they wanted to divide Louisiana from the rest of the country in hopes of gaining control of it. However after their defeat, the British began to acknowledge the United States ownership of Louisiana. This war led to the Treaty of Ghent.