Legacy of the War of 1812
Review Question: What were the three reasons that President James Madison gave to Congress when requesting a declaration of war?
Goals of the War Hawks Defend their honor and dignity Stop the practice of impressment Protection from the natives in the West Gain new territory = Canada Expansion!!!
Reality Check War lasts 2.5 years Ends with the Treaty of Ghent (Dec. 24, 1814) Battle of New Orleans happens after the treaty is signed Armistice & Status Quo So what did the US win???
Nationalism US emerges stronger 1 st declared war for our young nation Heightened sense of patriotism Frances Scott Key = Star Spangled Banner Inspired by the big flag over Fort McHenry Starts out as a poem; later music is added Eventually becomes the national anthem (1931) ***National Anthem
National Heroes Gen. Andrew Jackson His victory at the Battle of New Orleans makes him a hero This momentum will lead him to the White House in 1828 The “common man’s president” Jackson Video
National Heroes Pres. James Madison & First Lady Dolley Madison 1 st commander-in-chief to go to war & win More than just an intellectual Dolley Madison saves the famous portrait of George Washington Adds to her popularity
Realignment of the Political Parties Review question: What were the first two political parties in the US and who founded them? Federalist Party Had opposed the War (New England states) Hartford Convention = Talked about leaving the Union After the War, the Federalists crumble Eventually, replaced by the Whig Party (formed to oppose Jackson) Democratic-Republicans Strongly support the War & Madison (Western & Southern states) Remain the only party for a while Factions within the party lead to it crumbling Eventually, replaced by the Democrats (Jackson)
Expansion into the West Removing the British from the Western territories cleared the way for more settlers to move out west Indian conflict & removal Sectionalism emerges = North vs. South Main issue = Slavery Can we maintain a balance between “free states” and “slave states”