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American Wars
During the 1800s the British invaded the United States, the U.S. Army invaded Mexico, the north fought the south, the white men fought the Indians, and the United States fought the Spanish. A century of conflict changed the American nation forever.
The United States Fought a War Against North African Pirates in the E…
North African pirates had been a menace for hundreds of years and by the late 1700s many nations were paying tribute ensure merchant shipping could proceed without being violently attacked.
In the early years of the 19th century, the United States, at the direction of President Thomas Jefferson, decided to call a halt to the payment of...
British Troops Burned the Capitol and the White House in 1814
The War of 1812 holds a peculiar place in history. It’s often overlooked, and it’s probably most noteworthy for verses written by an amateur poet and attorney who witnessed one of its battles.
Three weeks before the British Navy attacked Baltimore and inspired the "Star-Spangled Banner," troops from the same fleet landed in Maryland, battled outgunned American forces, marched into the …
The Mexican War
In the mid-1840s, relations between the United States and Mexico were strained. Texas was on the verge of becoming part of the US, and Mexicans were outraged.
The bad feelings intensified, violent conflicts erupted, and a bellicose American president quickly convinced Congress to declare war.
The actual conflict would be overshadowed by the...
The Star-Spangled Banner
The actual flag that flew over Fort McHenry and inspired Francis Scott Key resides at the Smithsonian Institution. The national museum hosts an informative web site about the flag and its glorious past.
Causes of the War of 1812
The causes for the War of 1812 included impressment of American sailors as well as other important issues.