The War of 1812

The War of 1812 started when the United States declared war on Great Britain. The war lasted from 1812 to 1815. Americans were upset because the British were stopping their ships and taking sailors. The two sides fought on land and sea. It is sometimes called America's second war for independence.

Battles and Burning

American and British soldiers fought many battles. The British even sailed up to Washington, D.C. and set fire to the White House. First Lady Dolley Madison saved a famous painting of George Washington before she escaped. The Americans fought back and won important battles too. One big victory came at the Battle of New Orleans.

A Famous Song

During the war, the British attacked Fort McHenry in Baltimore. An American named Francis Scott Key watched the battle from a ship. When he saw the American flag still flying the next morning, he wrote a poem. That poem became 'The Star-Spangled Banner.' It is now the national anthem of the United States.

Fun Facts

• The Battle of New Orleans happened after the war was already over because news traveled slowly.
• The White House had to be rebuilt after the British burned it.
• The war ended with a treaty signed in Belgium.

Did You Know?

Neither side really won the War of 1812, but it helped Americans feel proud and united as one nation.