Existing comment:
Peace
The peace treaty was signed in the City of Ghent in Belgium on Christmas Eve, 1814. Word of the treaty found its way to the citizens of the nation at the speed of the times. The New York Gazette published the story of Sunday, February 12. Philadelphia picked it up on Monday. In Annapolis, The Maryland Gazette announced the news in its edition on Thursday February 16, 1815.
Significance of the War:
Military events in the Chesapeake Bay had far-reaching effects on American society and our country's cultural identity. America emerged with a greatly enhanced international reputation on the world stage. The new nation had successfully defended itself against the British Empire and the world's most powerful navy. The War of 1812 was a crucial test for the US Constitution and the newly established democratic government. Though the nation was divided on the decision to declare war on Great Britain and was ill prepared to do so, ultimately, the new multi-party democracy survived the challenge of foreign invasion. The War established clear boundaries between eastern Canada and the United States, set conditions for control of the Oregon Territory, and freed international trade from the harsh restrictions that ignited the war. |