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The Battle of 1812 commenced on June 18, 1812. Congress declares war against Great Britain. The war was caused because of British attempts to restrict U.S. trade, the Royal Navy’s impressment of American seamen and America’s desire to expand its territory.

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Madison continues to manage war with Great Britain, but fails to achieve any real strategic goals. American naval forces are more successful at such places as Lake Erie and the River Thames in Canada. American land forces capture York and restore stability with victories at Chippewa, Lundy's Lane, and Fort Erie.

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Madison and government evacuate Washington when British forces under command of General George Cockburn defeat American forces in and around the city. Capitol building (including Library of Congress), White House, and other public buildings are torched by victorious British troops

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The War of 1812 officially ended on 24 December 1814, with the signing of the Treaty of Ghent in Belgium. Because communication to the U.S. took two more months, word of this official treaty of peace did not make it back to America until February 1815.

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By this time, the Battle of New Orleans was fought and won by the United States forces.

On 18 February 1815, President James Madison officially ratified the Treaty of Ghent, and the war was over.