The War of 1812 was a significant yet often misunderstood conflict between the United States and Britain, driven by a mix of economic interests and territorial ambitions.
This war was not just about impressment of American sailors or maritime rights; it was a bold land grab aimed at expanding the United States into British North America, now known as Canada, and the American desire for economic gain through neutrality, which ultimately backfired.
So in this episode, on the 210th anniversary of the Treaty of Ghent, which brought an end to the war, I’m going to find out exactly how it started, what happened, and its importance in shaping the future of the United States, as I ask… what is the War of 1812?
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Special guest for this episode:
- Professor Andrew Lambert, a Laughton Professor of Naval History in the Department of War Studies at King's College. His books include The Challenge: Britain Against America in the Naval War of 1812
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Highlights from this episode:
- The Treaty of Ghent marked the end of the War of 1812 on Christmas Eve 1814.
- The United States sought to expand by invading British North America, aiming for Canada.
- Impressment and economic warfare were central issues leading to the War of 1812.
- The War of 1812 was not just a conflict with Britain but involved Native American resistance.
- The British successfully blockaded American ports, crippling the U.S. economy and forcing peace.
- American narratives often portray the War of 1812 differently than British historical accounts.
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Additional Resources:
Listen: The British way of war, Julian Corbett and national strategy with Professor Andrew Lambert in The War Studies Podcast
Read: The Challenge: Britain Against America in the Naval War of 1812 by Andrew Lambert
Read: War of 1812 Timeline | American Battlefield Trust
Read: Battle of Horseshoe Bend Facts and Overview - The History Junkie
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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
Why Did the USA Drop Atomic Bombs on Japan?
Is America an Empire?
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