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Think You Know the War of 1812?

 

Think You Know
The War of 1812?

 

Renowned Historians Burt Kummerow and Ralph Eshelman Shed New Light on This ‘Forgotten War’ in a Lively and Colorful Book…

 

And it’s yours FREE… When You Become a Member

 

Francis Scott Key

‘Francis Scott Key,’ Dewitt Clinton Peters, MdHS, 1952.15.10

Dear Reader,

What do you know about the War of 1812? Compared to the Civil War or the American Revolution, it’s a forgotten footnote in the history of the United States. A few key details stand out, such as the burning of the Capitol in Washington, Francis Scott Key and the Star-Spangled Banner, the Battle of New Orleans, but little else.

Most people don’t know why we fought the War of 1812, or what it meant to us. In fact, there are some downright misconceptions about the War of 1812 that have plagued our national consciousness.

So, if you think you know about the War of 1812, take this quiz and see where you stand! The answers could surprise you.

 

Question 1: When Was the War of 1812 Fought?

 

Answer: It’s not a trick question. Yes, the first shots of the war were fired in 1812 when the U.S. frigate President clashed with the H.M. frigate Belvederain the cold Atlantic waters. But most of the major fighting actually occurred between the years 1813 and 1815.

Some people refer to the War of 1812 as the ‘second war for independence,’ but that, too, is misleading. British invasion had nothing to do with the reasons why the United States went to war. Rather, it was to force the British to give up some despised maritime policies restricting American trade, and to outlaw impressment, the Royal Navy’s practice of kidnapping seamen from American merchant vessels.

 

Question #2: Why Was Canada Involved In Our War Against Britain?

 

‘Canada Saved,’ Musée du Chàteau Ramezay

Answer: The War of 1812 was not a popular war. Trade embargoes had thrown the United States into a deep depression, and New England was talking secession. The Eleventh U.S. Congress passed the declaration of war by the narrowest vote in history.

Think about it: The reality of seventeen American warships against five hundred British warships did not inspire confidence!

President Madison figured that if there was fighting, the best place to do it would be where the U.S. had an advantage—on land, in the remote and sparsely populated wilderness of Canada. Frontier inhabitants believed the British had been supplying guns to Native Americans in the area, thus preventing further expansion west.

Once the United States conquered Canada, the British would have to concede the maritime issues in order to get their territory back. And if Britain refused, then Canada would be permanently annexed.

Little did we know how hard Canada would fight back…

 

Question #3: Who Won The War of 1812?

 

The Signing of the Treaty of Ghent, Christmas Eve, 1814, Amedee Forestier

Answer: If you answered ‘we did,’ you’re technically incorrect. No one won the War of 1812. The treaty of Ghent, which ended the War and was ratified in February 1815, restored relations between the United States and Great Britain to status quo ante bellum, which meant a return to the same conditions as before the war. After thousands of casualties, millions of dollars in property damage, several abortive invasions of Canada, unchecked ravages all over the Chesapeake, and most of the government buildings of the U.S. capital laid to waste, all of the blood and destruction had, on paper, accomplished nothing.

Or had it?

In their new book, In Full Glory Reflected: Discovering the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake, historians Burt Kummerow and Ralph Eshelman detail the new heroes and symbols that came out of the War of 1812 that served to define what it is to be American.

Bringing together expert historians, illustrators and travel writers, Kummerow and Eshelman dispel commonly held misconceptions about the War of 1812.

They detail gripping stories of devastating raids, heroic defense, gallant privateers, fugitive slaves, and threatened lands. The historic tales unfold with over a hundred vivid illustrations and clear maps to follow the action.

Following the narrative, a travel section provides a rich guide for adventurers who want to step back 200 years and explore the tidewater world where the war was fought.

It is 256 pages chock-full of detailed information, maps, prints and never-before-published images from the 1812 era.

In fact, it could be the only War of 1812 research you ever need, even for scholarly research.

Even better: It’s yours, for free.

Please let me explain…

 

Your FREE Copy of ‘One of the Best 1812 Books Ever Written’

 
Flip on your TV or open a newspaper, and you’re likely to see the names Burt Kummerow and Ralph Eshelman.

Among the foremost authorities on the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake region, they have educated thousands of visitors about this important, but little-known conflict.

Burt Kummerow is a writer and popular speaker, public television producer, president and CEO of the Maryland Historical Society and well-known authority on the 1812 era.

  • As the president of Maryland-based Historyworks, Inc., he brought Early American history to thousands of new audiences – both young and old.
  • He served as the principal consultant to the French and Indian War 250 Anniversary Consortium.
  • He is the author of three other books, War for EmpireHeartland, and Pennsylvania’s Forbes Trail.
Ralph Eshelman has over 35 years of cultural resource management experience and is considered a leading expert on the War of 1812.

  • As co-director of the Patuxent River Cultural Resources Survey, he worked to partially excavate an American 1812 military vessel.
  • He conducted an extensive survey of Maryland 1812 sites for the National Park Service American Battlefield Protection Program and served as historian consultant for multiple Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail Feasibility studies.
  • He has written or co-authored three War of 1812 books: Chesapeake Legends and Lore from the War of 1812, The War of 1812 in the Chesapeake, and Maryland’s Largest Naval Engagement.

In fact, thousands of students, scholars and armchair historians are already using their research, and for the first time, you’ll be able to join them, for free. How is that possible?

 

256 Pages Chock Full of Scholarly Research and Full-Color Illustrations

 
   Because you’re about to receive In Full Glory Reflected: Discovering the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake… at no charge.

In Full Glory Reflected contains an easy-to-follow description of the events leading up to the battles of the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake—as well as a detailed account of the battles themselves. You’ll learn about:

  • Predatory raids on the Atlantic Coast, and the ‘curse’ of the Chesapeake
  • The arrival of Uncle Sam into cultural consciousness
  • The story behind the Baltimore Riots
  • Enemy warships anchored along the Chesapeake
  • The Weapons of 1812 Warfare
  • Eastern Shore Battles, and ‘The Town That Fooled the British’
  • Joshua Barney and the ‘Mosquito Fleet’
  • A Tale of Two Generals
  • Tragedy at Bladensburg, and the Burning of Washington
  • North Point’s Unlikely Hero
  • The ‘Victorious Moment’ of a failed attack on Fort McHenry
  • Mary Pickersgill, the Star-Spangled Banner, and much more.

It’s the complete story of the Chesapeake Campaign, presented in an easy-to-read, narrative format. It’s perfect for any 1812 researcher—even absolute beginners.

Your free copy of this book is already reserved. I’ll show you how to claim it in one moment. First let’s take a sneak peek at what it contains, and how it could change the way you think about America’s ‘forgotten war’…

Want To Test Your 1812 Knowledge Some More?
For the answers, consult the following pages in the book, In Full Glory Reflected.

  1. A canine companion served as a mascot on the British oar boat Centipede. He sat unharmed after the battle of Hampton Roads, sitting on the bow gun. Name the breed. (page 36)
  2. Name the only Chesapeake town that surrendered to the British without a fight (this incident is also known as ‘the greatest disgrace ever to American Arms). (page 86)
  3. Following the burning of Washington, which small Maryland town became the de facto capital of the United States for 15 hours? (page 93)
  4. Tired of reading criticism in the press, General Cockburn ransacked the office of the Daily National Intelligencer in Washington. Which print letter did he order to be destroyed, and why? (page 105)
  5. After the Battle of Bladensburg and on their march to Nottingham, what baking ingredient marked the path for other British troops to follow? (page 107)
  6. What was the last engagement of the War of 1812 called? (page 156)

Take our quiz and send your answers to laura@pride2.org, and you could win a prize!

   

Meet the Cast of Characters

 
Unlike your high school history books, In Full Glory Reflected isn’t a dry list of unknown names and dates; it’s a collection of the people and stories – some never before published – who bring history to life. You’ll meet:

John O’Neill, an Irish immigrant and militiaman who found himself as the sole defender of the town of Havre de Grace! “The grape-shot flew very thick about me…. I kept waving my hat to the militia who had run away… but they proved cowardly and wouldn’t come back.” Captured by the British, O’Neill was paroled after only three days of captivity, because of the brave actions of his daughter.
Rear Admiral George Cockburn Rear Admiral George Cockburn, the fearless, capable and coldblooded second in command of the British forces. His hated raids in the Chesapeake region continued unchecked throughout 1813 and 1814, as he seized American ships, laid waste to entire towns, and captured and burned the government buildings of Washington, DC. “I have no hesitation,” Cockburn wrote his commander, “in pronouncing that the whole of the shores and towns within this vast bay, not excepting the Capital itself will be wholly at your mercy… or destroyed at your pleasure.”
Kitty Knight The beautiful and charming Kitty Knight, who had rented a brick house in the tiny town of Georgetown, Maryland, when the British pounced. With the town in flames, Knight confronted Admiral Cockburn in person and argued that by destroying her house the British would be putting a sick and elderly lady lying in the adjoining house in mortal danger. She convinced the admiral to spare the dwellings. They stand today as the Kitty Knight Inn.
Robert Wright What would you do if you suddenly had dozens of Royal Marines swarming on your property in the darkness before dawn? You could defend yourself and face the burning of your home. Or cooperate with the enemy and be considered a traitor by other Americans. Faced with such a decision, Robert Wright, former governor of Maryland, put his wife and daughter into a carriage and hurried them to safety. Then he saddled up his favorite mount and galloped bravely about while his loyal slave ran to the shore and fired haplessly at the Royal Marines.
Joshua Barney Celebrated seafarer and Revolutionary heroJoshua Barney was captured three times, held on a notorious prison ship and escaped his captors – twice. Called out of retirement, he personally submitted a plan to Congress to head up the U.S. Chesapeake Flotilla, a small but agile fleet that scuttled British gun barges three times its size. In the face of overwhelming odds. Barney and his flotillamen continued their fight—on land—and won the respect of their comrades and British alike at Bladensburg.
Dolley Madison President James Madison was a small and unassuming man. Trembling and pale at the inaugural ceremony, he labored to project his voice to the audience straining to hear his address. It was up to his spirited wife,Dolley, to give the administration some vim and vigor—and that she did. In a few critical hours in 1814, she filled two wagons with some of the country’s most important documents, and fled herself – mere minutes before the British arrived & burned the presidential residence.
James Monroe Tall and dignified, the unflappable and capable James Monroe had the unusual position of serving as both secretary of state and secretary of war. Stranger still, he chose to personally scout the British movements as they invaded the Chesapeake. What he learned would change the course of the War as Americans struggled to fend off their British invaders.
The War in the Chesapeake was fought on land, but some of the most breathtaking battles occurred by sea. Baltimore clipper ships were made specifically for the task, helmed by daring and resourceful captains, such as Thomas Boyle, who commanded theChasseur. Together with his crew, they captured eighteen ships, including the warship St. Lawrence, and earned the title ‘Pride of Baltimore’ for his plucky vessel.One of Chasseur’s integrated crew was a black seaman named George Roberts. The retired gunner lived long enough to be celebrated and photographed as an ‘Old Defender.’

And many more!

In Full Glory Reflected sheds new light on some familiar names—and introduces new heroes to the next generation of history lovers.
Maps
From never-before-published maps of important battles to enlightening research on the types of ammunition and artillery used in the 1812 era, to a detailed description of all of the War’s major players, every page contains full color illustrations that you will cherish for years to come.

Best of all, this beautiful 256-page book is yours FREE. You pay absolutely nothing for it.

Let me tell you why we’ve gone out of our way to make this possible.
 

An Event You Won’t Want to Miss

Pride II at sea

Did you know it was the success of privateer vessels, like the Pride of Baltimore II, that inspired the Royal Navy’s attack on Baltimore in 1814? When Francis Scott Key saw the American flag still flying after the all-night bombardment of Fort McHenry, he was inspired to pen the “Star-Spangled Banner.”

Today, Pride has been a recognizable maritime icon the world over. Pride IIhas sailed nearly 250,000 miles, and visited over 200 ports in 40 countries in North, South, and Central America, Europe, and Asia.

Pride has introduced thousands of students to the history and significance of early 19th century privateers and their role in the birth of our National Anthem. As America’s Star-Spangled Ambassador, Pride has been featured in hundreds of media outlets around the world, proudly representing all Marylanders.

Now, with the National Park Service and several state partners, we are proud to be featured as part of In Full Glory Reflected, a lavishly illustrated book that you can enjoy for years to come.

And this book is yours, FREE, for joining our Privateer Society Membership Program.
 

Why Become a Member of Pride of Baltimore II?

   

I’m a lifelong sailor, but from my first guest crew cruise on the Pride of Baltimore II, I knew I had found a very different and exciting sailing experience.  It’s been great working with the Pride’s captains, crew and office to tell the unique story behind this fantastic ship.”
– Pierre Henkart,
Volunteer

  

Pride’s Membership program is known as the Privateer Society. It is the best way to support Pride’s mission of promoting historical maritime education, fostering economic development and tourism, and representing the people of Maryland in every port she visits—and if you join today, we’ll send you a copy of In Full Glory Reflected: Discovering the War of 1812 in the ChesapeakeABSOLUTELY FREE!

 

Take Pride In Pride II

 

“Baltimore built” in the style of the city’s famous War of 1812 privateers,Pride II is an icon of America’s maritime history.

During the War of 1812, Captain Thomas Boyle had sailed Chasseur, a Baltimore clipper ship, from Fells Point to the British Isles, where, in a characteristically audacious act, he sent a notice to King George III declaring that the entire British Isles were under naval blockade by Chasseur alone!

This affront sent the shipping community into panic and caused the Admiralty to call vessels home from the American war to guard merchant ships which had to sail in convoys. In all, Chasseur captured or sank 17 vessels before returning home, earning Chasseur the name “Pride of Baltimore” by the Niles Weekly Register.

And the rest, as they say, is history.

Your support of Pride of Baltimore, Inc. benefit Pride’s educational programs, sailing activities, and ship operations. Since being commissioned in 1988, Pride of Baltimore II has welcomed aboard hundreds of thousands of people for deck tours, sailing charters, day sails, youth programs, private events and overnight guest crew experiences. We rely exclusively on grants, corporate sponsorships, and individual philanthropy to keep sailing.

Together we can help Pride continue sailing into the 21st century.
 

Join Today, and Receive
In Full Glory Reflected— Absolutely FREE

 
This year, we have created a special offer for new Pride of Baltimore members. Join our Privateer Society at any level of membership, and you will receive:

  • A copy of our informative and beautiful, 256 page book, In Full Glory Reflectedat no additional cost
  • A subscription to our monthly Sail Mail e-newsletter
  • Our Privateering History Manual PDF download
  • Invitations to special events and tours
  • A 10% discount off all merchandise in our Ship Store
  • Advance notice of upcoming programs
  • Special recognition on our website
  • And much more

Best of all, your membership is 100% tax-deductible. You can even give the gift of membership to a friend or family member – it makes the perfect birthday gift! Justclick here to become a member, and receive your free copy of In Full Glory Reflected as our gift to you.
 

Our 100% Guarantee

 
Guarantee
And if, for some reason, you’re not completely satisfied with the book or your membership, simply email us and let us know.

We guarantee that we will work with you to resolve the issue so you are 100% satisfied—or your money back! A tradition of excellence; that’s the Pride of Baltimore way. We wouldn’t have anything else.
 

This Just In!
Another Award For In Full Glory Reflected

 
In Full Glory Award
In Full Glory Reflected: Discovering the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake has just received the Excellence in Media and Publications Award from the Maryland Historical Trust.

It’s the highest level of recognition for historic preservation and heritage education projects in the state of Maryland.

In Full Glory Reflected brings the War of 1812 and Maryland’s contributions to the defense of the nation to life,” said Bill Pencek, executive director of the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission and chair of the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail’s Advisory Council. “The book is a must-have history and travel guide for exploring the Chesapeake region.

Have you ordered your copy yet?
 

What Are You Waiting For?

Become a Pride of Baltimore II Privateer Society Member, and Get Your FREE Copy of In Full Glory Reflected Today!

Join us at Pride, and receive your copy of the award-winning book, In Full Glory Reflected, absolutely free.

This lavishly illustrated, 256-page book has become the definitive book on the Chesapeake Campaign during the War of 1812.

And remember, your contribution is 100% tax-deductible. You can even give the gift of membership to a friend or family member—it makes the perfect birthday gift! Just click here to become a member, and get your free copy of In Full Glory Reflected right away. Our sincerest thanks for your support.

Sincerely,

Laura Rodini
Marketing Director, Pride of Baltimore II
 

Order My Copy Of In Full Glory Reflected Now!