Causes of the War of 1812

• In 1803, Britain and France went to war again.

• Both countries seized U.S. ships sailing towards the ports of their enemy.

• Britain continued its’ impressment of U.S. sailors.

Impressment - the American perspective

Impressment - the British perspective

Embargo Act (1807)

• Banned U.S. ships from trading with any country; all imports and exports were banned!

• This hurt the U.S. economy!

Non-Intercourse Act (1809)

• Trade with all nations was allowed except Britain or France.