The War of 1812 in the Age of Napoleon

The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States and Great Britain that lasted from 1812 to 1815. It is often remembered for the burning of the Capitol and the White House by British forces, the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner, and the decisive naval battle of New Orleans. In his book, The War of 1812 in the Age of Napoleon, Jeremy Black provides an international perspective on the conflict to better gauge its significance. He argues that the British viewed the war as a mere distraction from the Napoleonic War in Europe and focuses on the actions of the British, including their domestic and international links to the conflict. Black also offers new insights into the war in the West, amphibious operations, the effects of the British blockade, and how the conflict fit into British global strategy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2022
Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press

The War of 1812, a pivotal moment in American history, is deeply etched in the nation's collective memory. It is marked by the burning of the Capitol and the White House by British forces, the iconic Star-Spangled Banner, and the decisive naval battle of New Orleans. Now, a respected British military historian, Jeremy Black, offers an international perspective on this conflict to better understand its significance.

In his book, The War of 1812 in the Age of Napoleon, Black provides a captivating account of the war, framed within a broader political and economic context than most American historians have previously considered. He delves into the actions of the British, who, he argues, viewed the conflict as a mere distraction from the Napoleonic War in Europe. Black offers a detailed examination of events, both diplomatic and military, highlighting the parallels and contrasts to other military operations worldwide. He emphasizes the interconnectedness between politics and military conflict, particularly in the context of American political unease about a powerful executive and strong army, which undermined U.S. military efforts.

Black also provides fresh insights into the war in the West, amphibious operations, the impact of the British blockade, and how the conflict fit into British global strategy. For those who believe the War of 1812 is a closed chapter, this volume is filled with observations and insights that place this American war on the international stage.

The War of 1812 was a complex and multifaceted conflict that had far-reaching consequences for both the United States and Great Britain. It marked a turning point in American history, shaping the nation's political and military landscape for years to come. Black's book offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of this important period, providing a fresh perspective that challenges traditional narratives and sheds light on the broader global context in which the war unfolded.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780806144580