War of 1812: America’s Westward Expansion and Key Battles
America’s westward expansion was fueled by the Gold Rush, the Oregon Trail, and a belief in ‘manifest destiny.’ The War of 1812 was fought to continue this expansion at the expense of the Aboriginals. The movement of settlers into the American West was a key factor in the war.
Key Battles
Tippecanoe: Nov 7, 1811
Burning of Aboriginal community, Prophet’s town, and Tecumseh’s fury. Ended in Stalemate.
Fort Detroit: Aug 1812
British, Isaac Brock, and American, William Hull. Brock’s bluff led to the British capture of this strategic garrison.
Lake Erie: Sep 1813
First Naval battle of the war. American Victory.
Battle of New Orleans: Jan 1815
American victory. Took place immediately after the treaty of Ghent.
Key Figures
Isaac Brock
Defender of Canada, British commander at key battles.
Tecumseh
Aboriginal Leader during key battles. Died at the battle of Moravian town.
James Madison
American president at the beginning of the War.
Andrew Jackson
“Old Hickory” American General. Led the USA to defeating the Creek confederacy in early 1814, depriving Britain of their ally.