War of 1812
Dennis Rasmussen Essay question # 2 Dr Dennis Casey History 1301If you look at one small aspect of this war you could infer, had the United States been able to stay neutral this war might have been avoided. In reality I don't think this war was anymore avoidable than World War I or World War II. American pride coupled with the fact that we were a fledgling nation experiencing a depression, political unrest, and being provoked at nearly every turn by Britain made this war inevitable. The American economy had never been especially strong, but In 1808 when President Jefferson's trade embargo went into effect, not being able to trade freely with Britain and the rest of Europe sent the American economy spiraling into a depression. Because of the depression net earnings from the shipping industry fell by almost fifty percent and its estimated that almost thirty thousand sailors and one hundred thousand people in support related industries lost their jobs. Earnings from legitimate business enterprises fell to less than a quarter of what their value was in 1807. The depression crippled many eastern towns especially New England where their economy had become almost entirely dependent
This at least seemed tolerable, but when they started capturing American ships and impressing American sailors into British service Americans became incensed and started crying for action. The British blockade, harassment, and the depression that was ruining our economy forced America to do something to redeem its honor. If you're of the mindset that puts country and honor above all then t!his war was a definite victory. Earnings from legitimate business enterprises fell to less than a quarter of what their value was in 1807. American pride coupled with the fact that we were a fledgling nation experiencing a depression, political unrest, and being provoked at nearly every turn by Britain made this war inevitable. This at least seemed tolerable, but when they started capturing American ships and impressing American sailors into British service Americans became incensed and started crying for action. The depression crippled many eastern towns especially New England where their economy had become almost entirely dependent on shipping. Even after the Revolutionary War, Great Britain always maintained a harassing presence in America. A government already stressed to the breaking point with domestic issues. The treaty didn't change the fact that the British were supplying the Indians with weapons nor did we chase the British out of Canada. It shows that once again the resilience, determination, and creativity that's been the mark of this great nation from the start allowed America to face yet another challenge successfully. It did however reopen trade with Britain and Europe, and it did give America back its honor and sense of purpose. On June 18, 1812 President Madison signed the declaration of war for which America was in no way ready for. The treaty didn't change the fact that the British were supplying the Indians with weapons nor did we chase the British out of Canada. On the defeat side, we can state that the war really didn't change anything that we wanted it to change.
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