The War of 1812: Sectionalism to Nationalism

Nia Gavia
Mr. Thomas
October 31, 2014

War of 1812: Sectionalism to Nationalism

I. Pre 1812: Division 

The war within: Federalist versus Republican War Hawks
Hamiltonians,the upper class merchants, admired and benefitted from british commerce. They saw Britain as a useful potential ally. Their greatest fear was losing their biggest resource and wanted to solve the disputes in a more diplomatic manor. The lower class american war hawks hated Britain's lack of respect for the new American power and the impressment of U.S ships. They believed the war would establish American dominance, stop British harassments permanently, and allow the country to expand. For more go to: http://www.roadmaptolastbesthope.com/_images/_volume1/_chapter6/Chapter6_Debate.pdf

Madison: the mind of a genius and the personality of a chair
James Madison was an unassuming bookish man. He was a brilliant minded individual, but one that lacked a personable quality and had trouble connecting with his people. He was also facing the disapproval of the people after his Embargo act of 1807, and constant controversy from the Federalist party. For more go to: http://www.whitehouse.gov/about/presidents/jamesmadison

II. Post 1812: Unity

Madison: Zero to hero

After the war of 1812 Madison's efforts during the war to communicate with the people brought him great support and love . The success of the war also boosted his approval ratings. Also his opposition, the Federalist party, was practically nonexistent by the end of the war.

One nation,indivisible 

Surprisingly the war of 1812 brought both parties together as both the wealthy merchants and the poor farmers pitched in to save their country. To defend Baltimore, the British merchants were willing to sink their ships, their main source of income, in order to prevent the British fleets from entering their ports. 
For more see: http://www.history.com/topics/war-of-1812