1812: the war that forged a nation - walter r. borneman

Rich in vignettes of personalities from commanding generals to a farm wife, 1812 presents a sweeping narrative that emphasizes the struggles importance to Americas development as a nation and its subsequent westward expansion.

Although frequently overlooked between the American Revolution and the Civil War, the War of 1812 tested a rising generation of American leaders; unified the United States with a renewed sense of national purpose; and set the stage for westward expansion from Mackinac Island to the Gulf of Mexico.

USS Constitution, Old Ironsides, proved the mettle of the fledgling American navy; Oliver Hazard Perry hoisted a flag boasting, Dont Give Up the Ship; and Andrew Jacksons ragged force stood behind its cotton bales at New Orleans and bested the pride of British regulars.

Here are the stories of commanding generals such as Americas double-dealing James Wilkinson, Great Britains gallant Sir Isaac Brock, Canadas heroine farm wife Laura Secord, and country doctor William Beanes, whose capture set the stage for Francis Scott Key to write The Star-Spangled Banner.

During the War of 1812, the United States cast off its cloak of colonial adolescence and -- with both humiliating and glorious moments -- found the fire that was to forge a nation.

This P.

edition features an extra 16 pages of insights into the book, including author interviews, recommended reading, and more.