US Event: War of 1812

"The war has renewed and reinstated the national feelings and character which the Revolution had given, and which were daily lessened. The people . . . . are more American; they feel and act more as a nation; and I hope the permanency of the Union is thereby better secured." -Secretary of Treasury, Albert Gallatin 1816

The War of 1812 was a military conflict fought between the United States of America and the British Empire. America declared war for a number of reasons, including land disputes in the Northwest Territory and imprisonment of American merchants in the Royal Navy. Following defeats in Washington and Canada, the Americans repelled attacks on New York and ended up winning the war after the Battle of New Orleans. Victories at battles such as the Battle of New Orleans and the defense of Baltimore evoked a great national pride. The war ushered in an era known as the "Era of Good Feelings."

This was significant because the "Era of Good Feelings" allowed for industry to thrive in the United States. Industry was also boosted during the war effort. The War of 1812 also effected business relationships of entrepreneurs who worked on both continents, like Francis Cabot Lowell. Lowell modeled plans of British machines and built textile factories in America. He was instrumental in bringing the Industrial Revolution to the United States.

The War of 1812 is also significant for inspiring awesome works like Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture."