Existing comment:
1817:
During the War of 1812, British troops invaded Washington DC and burned the White House in August 1814. The charred ruins became a symbol of defeat. Congress even discussed moving the capital farther inland. However, General Andrew Jackson's final victory over British forces at the Battle of New Orleans in 1815 restored national pride. Illustrating the resilience of the American people, Hoban set out to rebuild the residence, completing the work in 1817. |