In June of 1812, President James Madison finally succumbed to political pressure and declared war on Great Britain. Despite support from the War Hawks, opponents of the war rioted in Baltimore in protest.
BATTLE OF FRENCHTOWN
BATTLE OF DETROIT
We surrender!
American General William Hull surrendered to British-Canadian General Isaac Brock and the British captured the village of Detroit, without firing a single shot. Though outnumbered, they had threatened a crushing defeat, and Hull surrendered.
Americans were defeated and repelled by the British and Native forces at Frenchtown. In addition, surviving American forces were murdered in what is now referred to as the Raisin River Massacre.
TECUMSEH KILLED
Americans found victory at the Battle of the Thames. To them, it was proof of being able to rebound against an advantaged opponent. In a major loss, Tecumseh, the de facto leader of Britain's native allies, was killed. Morale was crushed for native forces.
TECUMSEH 1768-1813 A Great Native Warrior
WASHINGTON BURNS
With an invading force of over 4,000 regulars, the British took over and destroyed Washington D.C. The burning of the White House and other buildings was a crushing defeat both militarily and morally for the Americans. President Madison was forced to evacuate.
BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS
VICTORY!!
RETREAT!
At the Battle of New Orleans, U.S. General Andrew Jackson led a successful campaign. His forces defeated a formidable British naval and infantry force. Ironically, peace had been declared at Ghent only a week prior. Still, the victory boosted American morale.