Causes of War of 1812 Napoleonic Wars (1803 – 1815) –France and Britain engage in economic warfare –Berlin and Milan Decrees (France): restrict trade with England –Orders of Council (Great Britain): restrict trade with France Impressment of American sailors –British and French capture American ships –Violation of “Freedom of the Seas” Chesapeake-Leopard Affair –British kill 3 Americans, public wants retaliation

U.S. attempts economic warfare –Embargo Act: prohibits all international trade to and from American ports –Non-Intercourse Act: allowed trade with all nations except Britain and France –Macon’s Bill #2: authorized reopening of trade with Britain or France depending on who treated the U.S. properly “War Hawks” in Congress –SW, elected in 1810 demand WAR against Britain and Spain –Led by John Calhoun (SC) and Henry Clay (KY) Tecumseh and Battle of Tippecanoe –Shawnee chief unite Ohio tribes against American settlers –Americans believe British in Canada were encouraging Indian raids –Governor William Henry Harrison defeats Indians (Nov. 1811)

Opposing viewpoints –TJ felt Britain’s actions were only aimed at stopping Napoleon (US could wait it out) –JM felt Britain’s desire was to strangle American trade once and for all President James Madison attempts diplomatic measures –Sends war message to Congress on June 1 –Republicans help push war declaration through –Federalists strongly oppose war WAR – June 18, 1812 –“Free Trade and Sailors’ Rights”

Discussion Time: Does “economic warfare” work? What should it’s role be in solving international conflicts?