Existing comment:
The War of 1812
When the English seized American sailors to serve in the British navy, President Jefferson levied a tax on foreign trade -- it had little effect. In 1812, President Madison ill-advisedly declared war with England. In Virginia, the British attacked Norfolk and Hampton, burned the nation's capital, and looted Alexandria. An expedition launched from Tangier Island was halted outside Baltimore; the defense there inspired the composition of "The Star Spangled Banner." |