The Lasting Impacts of The War of 1812 on The United States

The War of 1812, fought between the United States and Great Britain, is often overshadowed by the American Revolution and the Civil War. However, it had significant impacts on the United States that affected its political, economic, and national identity. This essay will explore the lasting impacts of the War of 1812 on the United States of America.

Political Impacts

The War of 1812 was largely caused by the conflict over British impressment of American sailors and violation of U.S. neutrality. In response to these actions, President Thomas Jefferson passed the Embargo Act of 1807, which aimed to restrict American trade with foreign nations. However, the act had a negative impact on the American economy and ultimately failed to force Britain and France to respect American neutrality.

As a result of perceived British aggression, American grievances led to the declaration of war in 1812. The war resulted in a significant victory for the United States in the Battle of New Orleans, which helped to solidify Andrew Jackson's leadership and rise to prominence in American politics. Jackson's victory helped to shape American politics and strengthen American nationalism and pride.

Economic Impacts

The British blockade during the War of 1812 had significant effects on the American economy. Disruptions in shipping and trade caused by the blockade hurt American commerce and industry. American manufacturers and producers were forced to rely on domestic production, which led to an increase in support for economic independence from Britain. The war encouraged American manufacturing, which helped to establish the United States as an industrial power.

National Identity Impacts

The War of 1812 had significant impacts on American culture and societal changes. The war led to the rise of American literature and art as a response to the conflict. The creation of American symbols, such as the Star-Spangled Banner, helped to reinforce American identity and pride.

The war also reinforced American exceptionalism, the belief in American destiny and manifest destiny. The conflict had a significant impact on American foreign policy and expansionism. The war helped to establish the United States as a global power and set the stage for future American involvement in international affairs.

Conclusion

The War of 1812 had significant impacts on the political, economic, and national identity of the United States. The conflict helped to shape American politics, culture, and foreign policy. Despite being largely overshadowed by other wars in American history, the War of 1812 had a lasting impact and should be recognized as an important event in American history.

References

1. Latimer, J. (2007). 1812: War with America. Cambridge, MA: Belknap Press of Harvard University Press.
2. Perkins, B. (2002). Castlereagh and Adams: England and the United States, 1812-1823. London: Leicester University Press.
3. Heidler, D. S., & Heidler, J. T. (2004). Encyclopedia of the War of 1812. Santa Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIO.