Jefferson, Madison, and the Path to the War of 1812

Impressment

The British navy kidnapped American sailors, claiming they were British deserters.

Chesapeake-Leopard Affair (1807)

British warship Leopard fired on the U.S. warship Chesapeake, killing 3 Americans and capturing 4.

Embargo Act of 1807

Prohibited all U.S. exports to foreign nations, intended to hurt Britain economically.

Non-Intercourse Act (1809)

Reopened trade with all nations except Britain and France, but failed to stop violations of U.S. neutral rights.

Macon’s Bill No. 2 (1810)

Restored trade with Britain and France; if one respected U.S. neutrality, the U.S. would embargo the other.

Battle of Tippecanoe (1811)

A conflict where U.S. forces led by William Henry Harrison defeated Tecumseh’s forces.

War Hawks

A new generation of leaders, mainly from the South and West, who demanded war with Britain.

Tecumseh and The Prophet

Shawnee leaders who attempted to unite Native tribes against U.S. expansion.

Economic Pressure

Jefferson's response to British and French interference, instead of declaring war.

Trade Conflicts

Issues arising from Britain and France disregarding U.S. neutrality and seizing American ships.