War of 1812: Key Events and Figures

The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States and Britain, influenced by British naval practices and the Napoleonic Wars. The British, preoccupied with Napoleon, initially focused on defense. In 1814, they launched an invasion, capturing Washington, D.C., and burning key buildings. A powerful storm disrupted the British forces, leading to their retreat. The events tested the resilience of the young American nation.

What was a major reason for the British impressment of American sailors during the War of 1812?

• To gain manpower for the Royal Navy

• To prevent American expansion

• To increase trade with America

• To establish a new colony

Why was the War of 1812 initially of secondary concern to the British?

• They were focused on a war with Spain

• They were engaged in a major war with Napoleon

• They were dealing with internal conflicts

• They had a peace treaty with America

What was the main objective of the British forces in America after defeating Napoleon?

• To capture New York

• To invade Canada

• To launch an invasion of the United States

• To establish trade routes

What was the outcome of the British invasion on August 24, 1814?

• The British signed a peace treaty

• The British were defeated at Bladensburg

• The British captured and burned Washington, D.C.

• The American forces captured British regiments

Who was the First Lady who saved important artifacts from the White House during the British invasion?

• Martha Washington

• Mary Todd Lincoln

• Abigail Adams

• Dolly Madison

What did the British do to Washington's government buildings during their invasion?

• They set them on fire

• They used them as barracks

• They fortified them

• They ignored them

How did President Madison react to the burning of Washington, D.C.?

• He watched the fires from horseback

• He surrendered to the British

• He fled to Canada

• He signed a peace treaty

What was the significance of the events on August 24, 1814, for the United States?

• It tested the resilience of the young nation

• It was a day of victory for American forces

• It marked the end of the War of 1812

• It led to the capture of British forces

What natural event forced the British to retreat from Washington, D.C.?

• A drought

• A severe snowstorm

• A hurricane and tornado

• An earthquake

What was the impact of the hurricane on the British forces in Washington, D.C.?

• It dispersed their column and caused chaos

• It had no impact

• It caused them to advance further

• It strengthened their position