Congress declared war on Great Britain over trade restrictions, the seizure of American sailors, and frontier tensions — the young nation's "second war of independence." It would bring the burning of Washington, the defense of Fort McHenry that inspired the anthem, and a surge of national identity by its end.
Common Questions
What happened on June 18 in American history?
In 1812: the War of 1812 begins. Congress declared war on Great Britain over trade restrictions, the seizure of American sailors, and frontier tensions — the young nation's "second war of independence." It would bring the burning of Washington, the defense of Fort McHenry that inspired the anthem, and a surge of national identity by its end.
Why is June 18 significant?
Congress declared war on Great Britain over trade restrictions, the seizure of American sailors, and frontier tensions — the young nation's "second war of independence." It would bring the burning of Washington, the defense of Fort McHenry that inspired the anthem, and a surge of national identity by its end.
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