Key Battles of the War of 1812

A series of flashcards summarizing the key battles in the War of 1812, detailing significant events, outcomes, and figures involved.

Capture of Fort Detroit

Brock uses fear of Indigenous warriors as a tactic, Tecumseh cuts American communication lines, General Hull surrenders without a fight. Major British and Indigenous victory.

Battle of Queenston Heights

Oct. 13, 1812, American forces attempted to cross Niagara river and the British defended, Brock killed early in battle but British forces held, John Norton rallies Mohawk warriors and prevents American reinforcements, decisive British victory, lifts British morale.

Battle of Stoney Creek

A British victory with a surprise night assault, leading to the capture of American commanders during their march toward Hamilton.

Battle of Beaver Dams

A battle on June 24, 1813, where British victory was aided by Laura Secord's warning of a U.S. attack.

Battle of Lake Erie

A conflict where Oliver Perry captured all British ships, securing U.S. control of Lake Erie, marking an American victory.

Battle of the Thames/Moraviantown

An American victory on October 5, 1813, where the British were caught retreating from the Battle of Detroit, Tecumseh was killed, and the Moravian village was destroyed.

Battle of Chippawa

A battle led by Norton with significant casualties, leading many Haudenosaunee to withdraw and causing internal conflict within the confederacy.

Battle of Lundy’s Lane

One of the bloodiest battles in Canada on July 25, 1814; technically a British victory but practically a draw due to severe weakening of both sides.

Siege of Fort Erie

A failed British assault that led to a withdrawal, resulting in a U.S. victory.

Siege of Fort Michilimackinac

A key battle early in the War of 1812 where British forces captured a fort from American troops, marking a strategic advantage for the British in the Great Lakes region.

Northwest Indian War – AKA Ohio Wars

Often seen as part of a continuous Indigenous conflict, consists of smaller battles.

St. Clair’s Defeat

Part of Northwest Indian Wars, worst loss in US military history

Battle of Fallen Timbers

Part of Northwest Indian Wars — 1794, US victory weakens Indigenous resistance, British fail to provide support