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The War of 1812: A History From Beginning to End
War of 1812 Free BONUS Inside!* * * Read On Your Computer, MAC, Smartphone, Kindle Reader, iPad, or Tablet. In 1812, Americans held two distinctly different visions of their country. Some saw growing production, manufactures, trade, and merchant ships traversing the globe bringing a vast array of staple and luxury goods to commercial centers and riches to American captains living in cities like the capitals of Europe. Others saw a vast agrarian paradise spreading from the eastern coast into the western wilderness where innumerable American farmers and their families could be independent and equal, free of government impediments and corruption. These incompatible visions of America were held by two opposing political parties. The two halves of America also had incompatible views on the necessity of war that year. Only the Democratic-Republicans were anxious to march into Canada, seize Florida, and take all the western lands they could win or negotiate. Canada survived, but the indigenous peoples, despite their prodigious efforts to get a voice at the peace treaty table, failed to preserve their cultures, as they foresaw would happen. Inside you will read about... ✓ War Hawks and Neutrality ✓ Declaration and Reaction ✓ The Campaign of 1812 and 1813 ✓ 1814: War in the Balance ✓ Final Conflict and Peace And much more! Discover how shifting political ideologies shaped the path forward to 1812 and beyond.
122 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 24, 2021
I did not know much about The War of1812. This war was widespread, covering several states and Canada. The armies were both brilliantly used or sloppy when deployed. Communication was a problem. Its a short book, filled with comprehensive data from all sides as well as the aftermath
April 4, 2023
My god, Native Americans just couldn't catch a break. People suck
November 1, 2020
A very concise, yet accessible telling of a war not many American know about or understand. Written to engage and entertain, it's a definite plus to have in one's American History arsenal!
November 1, 2022
As one begins reading, it's confusing, shocking, and finally, infuriating at being cheated, and seeing the hubris of a publication series now one's certain is based in US!
"The War of 1812 is a complicated war with as many as four different sides, each with its own plan for success. Pitched against each other were the United States, Canada, the Native tribes, and Great Britain."
WHAT????!!!!!
For most of us, the very mention of 1812, especially in context of a war, signifies Tchaikovsky and his 1812, written honouring and welcoming Napoleon's advent into Moscow.
"The Year 1812, Solemn Overture, Op. 49, popularly known as the 1812 Overture, is a concert overture in E♭ major written in 1880 by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky to commemorate the successful Russian defense against Napoleon I's invading Grande Armée in 1812. Wikipedia"
And to those of us literate, having lived for better part of a decade during vital years does not change that association, but on the contrary, gets affirmed if not formed in the first place.
"The Americans objected to the British blockade of trade with France and the continent. When the Royal Navy began boarding American ships to search out sailors suspected of being British citizens, the Americans tried both political and physical means to assert their neutrality on the seas. War Hawk politicians in the United States, on the other hand, started eyeing the taking of Canadian territory as a suitable retribution against British aggression. Canada, though still a British colony, found itself fighting for independence against the Americans. Native Americans, unhappy with recent treaties and forced movements westward, sought a solution and a homeland in the turmoil. Many tribes joined under Shawnee Chief Tecumseh in alliance with the British in an effort to gain political power against the Americans and secure sovereign territory for themselves in the interior of America. Through it all, Britain fought to hold on to its interests in North America."
As proud as US is of her earlier migrants having cheated, robbed and massacred the natives - hence the paki friendship? - since this bunch of skirmishes went on for at least half a decade, wouldn't it be less cheating to call it, say, Early Nineteenth Century War Between Four Across The Pond, instead of stealing the title 1812 from a dead maestro venerated in world of music, not to mention from Napoleon with his conquest of Europe and arrival in Moscow?
***
"“The acquisition of Canada this year, as far as the neighborhood of Quebec, will be a mere matter of marching, and will give us experience for the attack of Halifax the next, and the final expulsion of England from the American continent.”
"—Thomas Jefferson"
As despicable as Hitler’s policy and actions were a half a century later, he was merely emulating this!
Hitler wasn't that different, then! On the contrary - in occupying Europe and getting rid of non-German populations (by various means including extermination) thereof only half a century later, he was merely emulating the earlier US policy of expansion for his own, of acquiring a "lebensraum" for Germans!
And for all that, Thomas Jefferson isn't even criticised in UK, US or Europe, while Germans are and quite definitely so, for merely copying UK and US.
Mere racism there?
Doing in Europe to European populations, exactly as was bring done to rest of the world, from India to Africa to Alaska to Ushuaia to Hawaii to Indonesia, was a no-no, because only of race?
As despicable as Hitler’s policy and actions were a half a century later, he was merely emulating a not so much earlier US!
***
"After the Revolution, the United States sold all its warships, but in 1794, six frigates were built to fight against privateers from the Barbary State of North Africa. ... "
Author fails to explain why.
Why were US in need of warring against "Barbary State of North Africa"? They weren't in the way of US expansion across continent, and US wasn't colonising any part of Africa.
So. Why were US in need of warring against "Barbary State of North Africa"? Author isn't saying.
Why? Paid by oil money?
Reality is about "privateers from the Barbary State of North Africa" being busy kidnapping European women, and generally women of European descent, from ships plying across Atlantic, especially those travelling from Mediterranean ports, for purposes of breeding, in an effort to whitewash the progeny.
Hence the germination of US navy.
***
" ... James Madison had hoped to bring the war to an early end. From U.S. Ambassador to Russia, John Quincy Adams, son of John Adams, Madison received the message that the tsar might act as a mediator between the United States and Great Britain. Madison was happy to accept the proposition and sent Albert Gallatin and James Bayard to join Adams as potential commissioners for that purpose in St. Petersburg. However, in September 1812, England was not at all interested in mediation.
"America had planned a four-pronged attack on Canada. As it happened, two of the attacks failed, and two were not launched. ... "
They forget these little details when mentioning the US-Canadian border as the most peaceful international border.
"The 1812 Canadian campaign was a failure for the Americans, but the loss of General Brock was nevertheless a major blow to the British. ... The American fort had been evacuated by its garrison after a bombardment from British batteries the afternoon of the battle and could have been taken."
***
"“You, too, will be driven away from your native land and ancient domains as leaves are driven before the wintry storms. Sleep not longer, O Choctaws and Chickasaws, in false security and delusive hopes. Our broad domains are fast escaping from our grasp.”
"—Tecumseh, Shawnee chief"
The title Gone With The Wind with its heartbreaking inherent meaning and connotations fits them far more.
***
" ... For two days after the burning of Washington, hurricane-force storms impeded the armies and all travelers as they both headed toward Maryland. Madison, having first attempted for Maryland, heard that the British had left Washington and therefore summoned his cabinet on August 27 to join him in D.C. Mrs. Madison also returned and went to live in the home of her sister and brother-in-law until she could arrange a house for her and the president."
" ... The British believed that Baltimore was the seat for many of the American privateers, and therefore, an assault on Baltimore was the next objective. The assault by land would approach under Ross’s command via North Point while the naval attack under Cochrane aimed for Fort McHenry."
" ... Witnessing the overnight bombardment of Fort McHenry, which lasted 25 hours, Francis Scott Key was moved to write the words that would become the lyrics for the American national anthem."
" ... With these battles, Britain and the United States were ready to begin discussing a treaty of peace at Ghent, Belgium."
***
" ... Napoleon escaped from his prison on Elba on February 26, 1815, and Britain had no more time for North America. In fact, Britain was very annoyed with the United States. For years Britain had been fighting the major threat of Napoleon while Madison and their old colonies had been such a nuisance. Britain never expended more than seven percent of its military effort in the American war and afterward barely seemed to acknowledge that it happened. Their only real goal had been to keep Canada intact. Success achieved.
"The Canadians were relieved that they were still a separate colony with their own identity. If anything, the war had given them an identity. Canadian communities had been burned and looted by American troops during the war, and although time healed all wounds, Canadians felt they had successfully stood their ground against their southern neighbor. It was also a benefit that the Canadian economy had gained a wartime boost. Life was good.
***
"The United States was still a new nation sometimes unsure how to proceed with acts of governance. In 1810, the Twelfth Congress had been elected and was seated the following March in accordance with the schedule in the Constitution. The Democratic-Republican Party, also the party of President James Madison who was elected to a four-year term in 1808, held the majority in both the House and the Senate.
"Despite President Washington’s warning against the formation of political parties, America quickly became a two-party nation. The Federalist Party, promoting centralizing policies, was run by Alexander Hamilton while the Democratic-Republican Party, organized by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison (but not related to either of the two modern parties known by the same names), opposed strong centralization and supported states’ rights even to the extent of allowing states to nullify a federal law."
Which didn't help union in 1861.
"The 1810 national census revealed the United States to be a fast-growing nation. The increase in population over the preceding decade was 36.4 percent. The actual population total was 7,239,881, mostly in the north where the four largest cities—New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Boston—were located. Seventeen states were now in the union, up from the original thirteen, and new territories were forming westward.
"James Madison had the challenge or misfortune to become president in a time of political crisis. Declared by future generations both a Founding Father and the Father of the Constitution for his work in drafting the document, his achievements in office have generally been judged as above average in recent surveys of political historians. This judgment is reflected by his decisions and actions during the years leading up to and during the conflict of the War of 1812."
War of 1805-1814 would be far more accurate.
................................................................................................
................................................................................................
"History books rarely note that the 1803 Louisiana Purchase had disturbing consequences for Native American tribes. Until Napoleon quietly ceded the massive tracts of the Louisiana Purchase west of the Mississippi to the United States, native tribes did not expect to be pushed continually westward. Immediately after the Louisiana Purchase was made, the American government increased negotiations for more white settlement on remaining Indian lands east of the Mississippi."
"Negotiations"?????
***
"One region that was particularly strategic for trade routes and river traffic was the portion of the Mississippi River Valley from Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, south to East St. Louis, Illinois. The first governor of the Indiana Territory, which included the present state of Illinois, was the future president, William Henry Harrison. Taking advantage of sudden unrest between the Sauk and some settlers due to an argument ending in a settler homicide, Harrison demanded that the Sauk meet with him and bring the accused. Five Sauk warriors came, apparently expecting that they were going to negotiate traditional compensation for the relatives of the killed man, “to cover the blood” in their words, as was done among the tribes. In no way did these five men have authority to negotiate land sales, and Harrison knew that well. The man who was the killer was not released but, to the others’ dismay, executed for murder that day. The warrior Black Hawk later wrote in his autobiography that the Sauk men did not understand the document they had signed on November 3, 1804. Its official name is Ratified Indian Treaty #43, sometimes called the Treaty of St. Louis. Harrison and the government insisted the treaty gave to the United States all Sauk and Fox rights to lands extending over large parts of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Missouri."
Funny, do they teach their children that cheating is all right as long as you kill the ones you cheat?
"Dealings with Native Americans to the west were not going well for all concerned. To the east, on the ocean and in Europe, continuing wars disrupted trade. The United States wanted to be treated as neutral by England and France, but there were maritime blockades and restrictions to consider.
***
"The news from the west became more distressing. James Madison won the election of 1808, becoming president in March 1809. Fighting escalated in the Indiana Territory under Governor William Henry Harrison. His primary opposition, it was increasingly perceived, was the Shawnee Chief Tecumseh, born 1768 in Ohio, who had joined with his brother Laulewasikau, also known as the Prophet Tenskwatawa, both calling for a return to traditional cultural values and rejection of white influences. Tecumseh envisioned a large Indian confederacy preserving native lands and cultures while holding back white encroachment. He attracted many followers among the younger braves of numerous tribes, but the older leaders seemed to fear for the disruption of authority while Harrison and local white settlers felt threatened."
And he had to pay with his life if they "felt threatened", despite their selves being the aggressors robbing natives of land and life!
"Harrison’s aggressive treaty practices and documented tendencies to offer temporary support to someone, or some group, particularly when he needed cooperation from them, would become a focus of conflict in his future interactions with Tecumseh. Harrison’s driving objective was the acquisition of land for the United States. With the 1809 Treaty of Fort Wayne, he is said to have worked through the tribes involved, beginning with the agreeable Potawatomie who convinced the unwilling Miami to sign. Harrison and the Miami then offered the Wea, who were absent at the first negotiations, a subsidy to sign. Finally, Harrison promised the Wea an additional subsidy if they could also get the Kickapoo to sign. The treaty was finalized in the spring of 1810, ceding over 3,000,000 acres of Indian land to American settlers."
Did they know it amounted to their own permanent ouster from their land?
***
"Tecumseh was outraged. He proclaimed that Indian lands belonged to all tribes, and no lands could be sold without the consent of all. Tecumseh now set out intentionally to convince all tribes of this policy and of the necessity for a great Indian confederacy.
"Tecumseh was elsewhere in 1811 garnering support when Harrison made a sudden attack with an army of 1,100 soldiers on Tecumseh’s settlement, Prophet’s Town. The town was burned, and more critically, the food supply was destroyed. Laulewasikau responded but was defeated in battle—according to original accounts. In more modern assessments, Harrison’s forces took a beating, and the result was more of a draw. Harrison had twice as many men as Laulewasikau and suffered 200 casualties of whom 60 died. Tecumseh’s people lost 50 warriors with perhaps 80 wounded. Unfortunately, Laulewasikau had promised his warriors that the white men’s bullets would not hurt them. When this failed to be true, he and Tecumseh lost credibility. The confrontation on November 7 became known to Americans as the Battle of Tippecanoe. Harrison made the tale of the battle into his greatest victory and the core of his later presidential campaign."
So Harrison was a liar.
"The battle turned the tribes against the idea of a confederacy, and support for Tecumseh’s plan dispersed. White settlers in the Indiana Territory became much more confident of their safety. Tecumseh needed another plan."
****
"The War of 1812 is a complicated war with as many as four different sides, each with its own plan for success. Pitched against each other were the United States, Canada, the Native tribes, and Great Britain."
WHAT????!!!!!
For most of us, the very mention of 1812, especially in context of a war, signifies Tchaikovsky and his 1812, written honouring and welcoming Napoleon's advent into Moscow.
"The Year 1812, Solemn Overture, Op. 49, popularly known as the 1812 Overture, is a concert overture in E♭ major written in 1880 by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky to commemorate the successful Russian defense against Napoleon I's invading Grande Armée in 1812. Wikipedia"
And to those of us literate, having lived for better part of a decade during vital years does not change that association, but on the contrary, gets affirmed if not formed in the first place.
"The Americans objected to the British blockade of trade with France and the continent. When the Royal Navy began boarding American ships to search out sailors suspected of being British citizens, the Americans tried both political and physical means to assert their neutrality on the seas. War Hawk politicians in the United States, on the other hand, started eyeing the taking of Canadian territory as a suitable retribution against British aggression. Canada, though still a British colony, found itself fighting for independence against the Americans. Native Americans, unhappy with recent treaties and forced movements westward, sought a solution and a homeland in the turmoil. Many tribes joined under Shawnee Chief Tecumseh in alliance with the British in an effort to gain political power against the Americans and secure sovereign territory for themselves in the interior of America. Through it all, Britain fought to hold on to its interests in North America."
As proud as US is of her earlier migrants having cheated, robbed and massacred the natives - hence the paki friendship? - since this bunch of skirmishes went on for at least half a decade, wouldn't it be less cheating to call it, say, Early Nineteenth Century War Between Four Across The Pond, instead of stealing the title 1812 from a dead maestro venerated in world of music, not to mention from Napoleon with his conquest of Europe and arrival in Moscow?
***
"“The acquisition of Canada this year, as far as the neighborhood of Quebec, will be a mere matter of marching, and will give us experience for the attack of Halifax the next, and the final expulsion of England from the American continent.”
"—Thomas Jefferson"
As despicable as Hitler’s policy and actions were a half a century later, he was merely emulating this!
Hitler wasn't that different, then! On the contrary - in occupying Europe and getting rid of non-German populations (by various means including extermination) thereof only half a century later, he was merely emulating the earlier US policy of expansion for his own, of acquiring a "lebensraum" for Germans!
And for all that, Thomas Jefferson isn't even criticised in UK, US or Europe, while Germans are and quite definitely so, for merely copying UK and US.
Mere racism there?
Doing in Europe to European populations, exactly as was bring done to rest of the world, from India to Africa to Alaska to Ushuaia to Hawaii to Indonesia, was a no-no, because only of race?
As despicable as Hitler’s policy and actions were a half a century later, he was merely emulating a not so much earlier US!
***
"After the Revolution, the United States sold all its warships, but in 1794, six frigates were built to fight against privateers from the Barbary State of North Africa. ... "
Author fails to explain why.
Why were US in need of warring against "Barbary State of North Africa"? They weren't in the way of US expansion across continent, and US wasn't colonising any part of Africa.
So. Why were US in need of warring against "Barbary State of North Africa"? Author isn't saying.
Why? Paid by oil money?
Reality is about "privateers from the Barbary State of North Africa" being busy kidnapping European women, and generally women of European descent, from ships plying across Atlantic, especially those travelling from Mediterranean ports, for purposes of breeding, in an effort to whitewash the progeny.
Hence the germination of US navy.
***
" ... James Madison had hoped to bring the war to an early end. From U.S. Ambassador to Russia, John Quincy Adams, son of John Adams, Madison received the message that the tsar might act as a mediator between the United States and Great Britain. Madison was happy to accept the proposition and sent Albert Gallatin and James Bayard to join Adams as potential commissioners for that purpose in St. Petersburg. However, in September 1812, England was not at all interested in mediation.
"America had planned a four-pronged attack on Canada. As it happened, two of the attacks failed, and two were not launched. ... "
They forget these little details when mentioning the US-Canadian border as the most peaceful international border.
"The 1812 Canadian campaign was a failure for the Americans, but the loss of General Brock was nevertheless a major blow to the British. ... The American fort had been evacuated by its garrison after a bombardment from British batteries the afternoon of the battle and could have been taken."
***
"“You, too, will be driven away from your native land and ancient domains as leaves are driven before the wintry storms. Sleep not longer, O Choctaws and Chickasaws, in false security and delusive hopes. Our broad domains are fast escaping from our grasp.”
"—Tecumseh, Shawnee chief"
The title Gone With The Wind with its heartbreaking inherent meaning and connotations fits them far more.
***
" ... For two days after the burning of Washington, hurricane-force storms impeded the armies and all travelers as they both headed toward Maryland. Madison, having first attempted for Maryland, heard that the British had left Washington and therefore summoned his cabinet on August 27 to join him in D.C. Mrs. Madison also returned and went to live in the home of her sister and brother-in-law until she could arrange a house for her and the president."
" ... The British believed that Baltimore was the seat for many of the American privateers, and therefore, an assault on Baltimore was the next objective. The assault by land would approach under Ross’s command via North Point while the naval attack under Cochrane aimed for Fort McHenry."
" ... Witnessing the overnight bombardment of Fort McHenry, which lasted 25 hours, Francis Scott Key was moved to write the words that would become the lyrics for the American national anthem."
" ... With these battles, Britain and the United States were ready to begin discussing a treaty of peace at Ghent, Belgium."
***
" ... Napoleon escaped from his prison on Elba on February 26, 1815, and Britain had no more time for North America. In fact, Britain was very annoyed with the United States. For years Britain had been fighting the major threat of Napoleon while Madison and their old colonies had been such a nuisance. Britain never expended more than seven percent of its military effort in the American war and afterward barely seemed to acknowledge that it happened. Their only real goal had been to keep Canada intact. Success achieved.
"The Canadians were relieved that they were still a separate colony with their own identity. If anything, the war had given them an identity. Canadian communities had been burned and looted by American troops during the war, and although time healed all wounds, Canadians felt they had successfully stood their ground against their southern neighbor. It was also a benefit that the Canadian economy had gained a wartime boost. Life was good.
***
"The United States was still a new nation sometimes unsure how to proceed with acts of governance. In 1810, the Twelfth Congress had been elected and was seated the following March in accordance with the schedule in the Constitution. The Democratic-Republican Party, also the party of President James Madison who was elected to a four-year term in 1808, held the majority in both the House and the Senate.
"Despite President Washington’s warning against the formation of political parties, America quickly became a two-party nation. The Federalist Party, promoting centralizing policies, was run by Alexander Hamilton while the Democratic-Republican Party, organized by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison (but not related to either of the two modern parties known by the same names), opposed strong centralization and supported states’ rights even to the extent of allowing states to nullify a federal law."
Which didn't help union in 1861.
"The 1810 national census revealed the United States to be a fast-growing nation. The increase in population over the preceding decade was 36.4 percent. The actual population total was 7,239,881, mostly in the north where the four largest cities—New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Boston—were located. Seventeen states were now in the union, up from the original thirteen, and new territories were forming westward.
"James Madison had the challenge or misfortune to become president in a time of political crisis. Declared by future generations both a Founding Father and the Father of the Constitution for his work in drafting the document, his achievements in office have generally been judged as above average in recent surveys of political historians. This judgment is reflected by his decisions and actions during the years leading up to and during the conflict of the War of 1812."
War of 1805-1814 would be far more accurate.
................................................................................................
................................................................................................
"History books rarely note that the 1803 Louisiana Purchase had disturbing consequences for Native American tribes. Until Napoleon quietly ceded the massive tracts of the Louisiana Purchase west of the Mississippi to the United States, native tribes did not expect to be pushed continually westward. Immediately after the Louisiana Purchase was made, the American government increased negotiations for more white settlement on remaining Indian lands east of the Mississippi."
"Negotiations"?????
***
"One region that was particularly strategic for trade routes and river traffic was the portion of the Mississippi River Valley from Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, south to East St. Louis, Illinois. The first governor of the Indiana Territory, which included the present state of Illinois, was the future president, William Henry Harrison. Taking advantage of sudden unrest between the Sauk and some settlers due to an argument ending in a settler homicide, Harrison demanded that the Sauk meet with him and bring the accused. Five Sauk warriors came, apparently expecting that they were going to negotiate traditional compensation for the relatives of the killed man, “to cover the blood” in their words, as was done among the tribes. In no way did these five men have authority to negotiate land sales, and Harrison knew that well. The man who was the killer was not released but, to the others’ dismay, executed for murder that day. The warrior Black Hawk later wrote in his autobiography that the Sauk men did not understand the document they had signed on November 3, 1804. Its official name is Ratified Indian Treaty #43, sometimes called the Treaty of St. Louis. Harrison and the government insisted the treaty gave to the United States all Sauk and Fox rights to lands extending over large parts of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Missouri."
Funny, do they teach their children that cheating is all right as long as you kill the ones you cheat?
"Dealings with Native Americans to the west were not going well for all concerned. To the east, on the ocean and in Europe, continuing wars disrupted trade. The United States wanted to be treated as neutral by England and France, but there were maritime blockades and restrictions to consider.
***
"The news from the west became more distressing. James Madison won the election of 1808, becoming president in March 1809. Fighting escalated in the Indiana Territory under Governor William Henry Harrison. His primary opposition, it was increasingly perceived, was the Shawnee Chief Tecumseh, born 1768 in Ohio, who had joined with his brother Laulewasikau, also known as the Prophet Tenskwatawa, both calling for a return to traditional cultural values and rejection of white influences. Tecumseh envisioned a large Indian confederacy preserving native lands and cultures while holding back white encroachment. He attracted many followers among the younger braves of numerous tribes, but the older leaders seemed to fear for the disruption of authority while Harrison and local white settlers felt threatened."
And he had to pay with his life if they "felt threatened", despite their selves being the aggressors robbing natives of land and life!
"Harrison’s aggressive treaty practices and documented tendencies to offer temporary support to someone, or some group, particularly when he needed cooperation from them, would become a focus of conflict in his future interactions with Tecumseh. Harrison’s driving objective was the acquisition of land for the United States. With the 1809 Treaty of Fort Wayne, he is said to have worked through the tribes involved, beginning with the agreeable Potawatomie who convinced the unwilling Miami to sign. Harrison and the Miami then offered the Wea, who were absent at the first negotiations, a subsidy to sign. Finally, Harrison promised the Wea an additional subsidy if they could also get the Kickapoo to sign. The treaty was finalized in the spring of 1810, ceding over 3,000,000 acres of Indian land to American settlers."
Did they know it amounted to their own permanent ouster from their land?
***
"Tecumseh was outraged. He proclaimed that Indian lands belonged to all tribes, and no lands could be sold without the consent of all. Tecumseh now set out intentionally to convince all tribes of this policy and of the necessity for a great Indian confederacy.
"Tecumseh was elsewhere in 1811 garnering support when Harrison made a sudden attack with an army of 1,100 soldiers on Tecumseh’s settlement, Prophet’s Town. The town was burned, and more critically, the food supply was destroyed. Laulewasikau responded but was defeated in battle—according to original accounts. In more modern assessments, Harrison’s forces took a beating, and the result was more of a draw. Harrison had twice as many men as Laulewasikau and suffered 200 casualties of whom 60 died. Tecumseh’s people lost 50 warriors with perhaps 80 wounded. Unfortunately, Laulewasikau had promised his warriors that the white men’s bullets would not hurt them. When this failed to be true, he and Tecumseh lost credibility. The confrontation on November 7 became known to Americans as the Battle of Tippecanoe. Harrison made the tale of the battle into his greatest victory and the core of his later presidential campaign."
So Harrison was a liar.
"The battle turned the tribes against the idea of a confederacy, and support for Tecumseh’s plan dispersed. White settlers in the Indiana Territory became much more confident of their safety. Tecumseh needed another plan."
****
August 8, 2021
There are a handful of companies that produce inexpensive eBooks in mass quantities to varying degrees of success. For example, I felt that the book on The Mormon Wars I read a few months ago, by Charles River Editors was actually fairly well done; there are, however, others that seem to make money from selling edited Wikipedia articles that I will not mention. Hourly History sits somewhere in the middle of the cheap eBook spectrum – they are adequate books with decent information if one wants a general overview for a high school level understanding of a historical event. I knew this going in, and was using this as a way to look for other specialized books to look into.
“In 1812, Americans held two distinctly different visions of their country. Some saw growing production, manufactures, trade, and merchant ships traversing the globe bringing a vast array of staple and luxury goods to commercial centers and riches to American captains living in cities like the capitals of Europe. Others saw a vast agrarian paradise spreading from the eastern coast into the western wilderness where innumerable American farmers and their families could be independent and equal, free of government impediments and corruption. These incompatible visions of America were held by two opposing political parties. The two halves of America also had incompatible views on the necessity of war that year. Only the Democratic-Republicans were anxious to march into Canada, seize Florida, and take all the western lands they could win or negotiate. Canada survived, but the indigenous peoples, despite their prodigious efforts to get a voice at the peace treaty table, failed to preserve their cultures, as they foresaw would happen.”
The book contains a few instances of fake historical facts made popular by school textbooks. For example, this book talks about the legendary heroism of First Lady Dolley Madison and her credit for single-handedly saving the famous portrait of George Washington from a Burning White House when the British attacked the Capitol in 1814. Rolled up in her blouse, the painting, (and Madison for that matter!) barely made it out intact! Or so they say. Sadly, this is not really what happened, and can be chalked up beside the Paul Revere Midnight Ride as a bit of American Mythology we should probably not teach anymore. We now know that Dolley Madison knew well beforehand about the attack and had her slave, Paul Jennings, and a couple of French cooks take important artifacts out of the house. This is no deal-breaker, but I was hoping for more from a book meant for educational purposes. This leads me to believe that whatever un-cited source used for this book was likely old and outdated.
If you literally know nothing about the War of 1812, as most people sadly don’t, this book is a good way to get general facts with a short page count and generally okay information. From this book, I got some ideas about reading a book I purchased about Tecumseh and some other 1812-era Indian battles in and around my area (well, St. Louis I suppose). If you are looking to become knowledgeable about this time in history, I’d recommend finding a book from an expert or journalist as they are always better and more informative than something like this. In closing, I appreciate this book for what it is, but wish it could have been a bit better. That said, it was free so I can’t complain too much.
“In 1812, Americans held two distinctly different visions of their country. Some saw growing production, manufactures, trade, and merchant ships traversing the globe bringing a vast array of staple and luxury goods to commercial centers and riches to American captains living in cities like the capitals of Europe. Others saw a vast agrarian paradise spreading from the eastern coast into the western wilderness where innumerable American farmers and their families could be independent and equal, free of government impediments and corruption. These incompatible visions of America were held by two opposing political parties. The two halves of America also had incompatible views on the necessity of war that year. Only the Democratic-Republicans were anxious to march into Canada, seize Florida, and take all the western lands they could win or negotiate. Canada survived, but the indigenous peoples, despite their prodigious efforts to get a voice at the peace treaty table, failed to preserve their cultures, as they foresaw would happen.”
The book contains a few instances of fake historical facts made popular by school textbooks. For example, this book talks about the legendary heroism of First Lady Dolley Madison and her credit for single-handedly saving the famous portrait of George Washington from a Burning White House when the British attacked the Capitol in 1814. Rolled up in her blouse, the painting, (and Madison for that matter!) barely made it out intact! Or so they say. Sadly, this is not really what happened, and can be chalked up beside the Paul Revere Midnight Ride as a bit of American Mythology we should probably not teach anymore. We now know that Dolley Madison knew well beforehand about the attack and had her slave, Paul Jennings, and a couple of French cooks take important artifacts out of the house. This is no deal-breaker, but I was hoping for more from a book meant for educational purposes. This leads me to believe that whatever un-cited source used for this book was likely old and outdated.
If you literally know nothing about the War of 1812, as most people sadly don’t, this book is a good way to get general facts with a short page count and generally okay information. From this book, I got some ideas about reading a book I purchased about Tecumseh and some other 1812-era Indian battles in and around my area (well, St. Louis I suppose). If you are looking to become knowledgeable about this time in history, I’d recommend finding a book from an expert or journalist as they are always better and more informative than something like this. In closing, I appreciate this book for what it is, but wish it could have been a bit better. That said, it was free so I can’t complain too much.
October 28, 2019
This is an interesting book about a war that doesn't get much attention. It points out the British war with the French and how that ended up having an effect on merchants in the United States. There was also the problem with the British taking sailors for U.S. ships, claiming they were actually British sailors.
There were also war mongers in the U.S. who wanted to get into a war and attack Canada.
The U.S. had a small army and a small navy. There was also a marked lack of cooperation among various states, military people and others. The British also formed alignments with the Native Americans which made the task of carrying out the war that much more difficult for the U.S.
It does point out that the biggest losers in the war were the Native American tribes who got pushed off more of their land.
I would have liked to have seen more about the British attack on Washington, D.C. and more on the defense of New Orleans, though.
There were also war mongers in the U.S. who wanted to get into a war and attack Canada.
The U.S. had a small army and a small navy. There was also a marked lack of cooperation among various states, military people and others. The British also formed alignments with the Native Americans which made the task of carrying out the war that much more difficult for the U.S.
It does point out that the biggest losers in the war were the Native American tribes who got pushed off more of their land.
I would have liked to have seen more about the British attack on Washington, D.C. and more on the defense of New Orleans, though.
February 13, 2022
I normally give these "A History From Beginning to End" quickie books a four star for being decently informative, even if the punctuation and grammar are a wee bit ropey. This one, though, is awful. Examples:
- "There were many complicated reasons for the French Revolution of 1792...". This revolution started in 1789 and finished in 1799.
- "The Committee of Public Safety established the famous (sic) Reign of Terror from 1793-1974...". The Terror started in 1793 and finished a year later in 1794.
The above examples are from the first chapter. Did I read on? Not a chance.
Garbage.
- "There were many complicated reasons for the French Revolution of 1792...". This revolution started in 1789 and finished in 1799.
- "The Committee of Public Safety established the famous (sic) Reign of Terror from 1793-1974...". The Terror started in 1793 and finished a year later in 1794.
The above examples are from the first chapter. Did I read on? Not a chance.
Garbage.
October 19, 2019
Another one of the Hourly History books moved to the "Read" pile. Go, me! This one was much better than the crapola that was done to the Founding Fathers, but I believe that was part of the Captivating History series. A concise recap of the events of the War of 1812, including an accounting of the war- and land-hungry ways of the Americans and losses to the Native Americans. I would have liked to have read more on Tecumseh and The Prophet, but I understand the limitations of an hourly read. Nicely done, overall.
August 31, 2018
This war between the US and Britain is hardly discussed as during that time the US did not occupy pre-eminence that it does now. Moreover, Europe was engaged in the Napoleonic wars. In the context of the US, it was indeed a historic event as it defined its northern boundaries as also its push towards the west in the context of occupying more territory that hitherto belonged to the "natives". Description provided in the book is pretty interesting.
March 1, 2019
Once again history is facinating!
Nice concise review of the players of the War 1812 with Britain. Good thing Britain and France bit off more than they could chew fighting each other rather than conquering the early US. We lucked out by default gaining the Northwest Territories and the Lousianna Purchase lands. Only the Native Americans lost in all ways and the British acheived the retention of Canada as was their goal anyway.
Nice concise review of the players of the War 1812 with Britain. Good thing Britain and France bit off more than they could chew fighting each other rather than conquering the early US. We lucked out by default gaining the Northwest Territories and the Lousianna Purchase lands. Only the Native Americans lost in all ways and the British acheived the retention of Canada as was their goal anyway.
February 18, 2019
As a European I was expecting something about the Napoleonic campaign in Russia.
This is a war that is virtually unknown here. From what I learned from this overview it was a futile and amateurish war by opportunist Americans while the British were occupied with Napoleon in Europe. Not America's greatest hour as they come out of it as incompetent, and grossly unjust to the native indians.
This is a war that is virtually unknown here. From what I learned from this overview it was a futile and amateurish war by opportunist Americans while the British were occupied with Napoleon in Europe. Not America's greatest hour as they come out of it as incompetent, and grossly unjust to the native indians.
June 7, 2023
the Hated War
I especially liked learning about the first ever war declared by the United States and that it was against our mother country, Britain. I would recommend this book to any one who perhaps only thinks of the Revolution War and the Civil War as it fills in a time gap between the two.
I especially liked learning about the first ever war declared by the United States and that it was against our mother country, Britain. I would recommend this book to any one who perhaps only thinks of the Revolution War and the Civil War as it fills in a time gap between the two.
May 14, 2025
I’m not sure what the credentials of this author are, I would take the information presented in this as more of an overall picture of the war of 1812 rather than a detailed academic novel. That being said, it’s a quick, easy, and informative read. Use your critical thinking skills when reading and know that you may need to double check some of the info but overall worth while read.
April 1, 2018
Review of this book
This book covered some interesting facts that a person would have to do research using multiple sources to uncover. It is written in a concise manner using as few words as possible to cover the war of 1812
This book covered some interesting facts that a person would have to do research using multiple sources to uncover. It is written in a concise manner using as few words as possible to cover the war of 1812
April 5, 2018
Another good overview
The Hourly History books can be compared to the coffee table pictorial overview of a city. You appreciate what you see knowing that there are details within the photos waiting to be discovered.
The Hourly History books can be compared to the coffee table pictorial overview of a city. You appreciate what you see knowing that there are details within the photos waiting to be discovered.
April 20, 2018
Ok but missed too much
This was a nice over view of the war of 1812 but it missed a lot. The entire campaign along the Niagara river was skipped. Buffalo burned to the ground as revenge for attacks on Fort Erie should not be missed.
This was a nice over view of the war of 1812 but it missed a lot. The entire campaign along the Niagara river was skipped. Buffalo burned to the ground as revenge for attacks on Fort Erie should not be missed.
October 4, 2018
The America Postponed
This was a short history of early American engagements to capture Canada. It didn’t go well for America. The disregard of rights of Natives and resolving the question of slavery in the new nation would be a harbinger of conflicts to come.
This was a short history of early American engagements to capture Canada. It didn’t go well for America. The disregard of rights of Natives and resolving the question of slavery in the new nation would be a harbinger of conflicts to come.
April 17, 2022
Good summary of a forgotten war
Great,easy to read pocket history of a war both sides would prefer to forget.I am unsure why the author reckons the American side won.The White House was trashed,after all! It took over a century before Americans managed that themselves ...
Great,easy to read pocket history of a war both sides would prefer to forget.I am unsure why the author reckons the American side won.The White House was trashed,after all! It took over a century before Americans managed that themselves ...
April 1, 2018
War of 1812
Very interesting. It’s a part of American History of which I knew practically nothing.
Muy interesante. Es una parte de la Historia de Estados Unidos que desconocía.
Very interesting. It’s a part of American History of which I knew practically nothing.
Muy interesante. Es una parte de la Historia de Estados Unidos que desconocía.
April 21, 2018
Overlooked War
This was a great insight of the War of 1812. A good short and must read for anyone. Will recommend.
This was a great insight of the War of 1812. A good short and must read for anyone. Will recommend.
Read
October 20, 2019Although a short book, it manages to give a good overview of the War and to its causes and it's effects.
December 17, 2019
I learned some stuff, mostly enjoyed it. Now if only I could get my brain to retain anything.
March 31, 2020
A must read for history lovers. You can see every soldier’s thoughts in the prose!
Exciting and beautiful
A must read for anyone wanting to learn more about the War of 1812
See this history come to life
Exciting and beautiful
A must read for anyone wanting to learn more about the War of 1812
See this history come to life
April 20, 2020
Good overview
This shortened history of the “War of 1812” was a good overview of this period in history. It highlighted the plight of the Native Americans as well.
This shortened history of the “War of 1812” was a good overview of this period in history. It highlighted the plight of the Native Americans as well.
November 24, 2021
Generally enlightening
I was looking for a detailed look into the prelude and actual war. This book is a good high level primer
I was looking for a detailed look into the prelude and actual war. This book is a good high level primer
April 11, 2022
Very good and informative.
Loved it. Answered all my questions without wasted words or pages. I read it twice. Very easy to read quickly.
Loved it. Answered all my questions without wasted words or pages. I read it twice. Very easy to read quickly.
May 28, 2022
The over looked war
Loaded with details over looked in American history books. Never perceived that it was also a war with Canada that created their own national identity.
Loaded with details over looked in American history books. Never perceived that it was also a war with Canada that created their own national identity.
June 9, 2024
A basic introduction
June 14, 2024
A quick version of how the Americans got into a war with the British from 1809 to 1814.
March 5, 2025
Succinct Summary of War of 1812
This book is a good, succinct overview of this war, which has been given scant attention in courses on American history.
This book is a good, succinct overview of this war, which has been given scant attention in courses on American history.
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