This section allows you to get to the heart of the 1812 conflict. Explore the general issues that led to the armed conflict, which pitted a newly independent country against another’s expanding empire, while a host of indigenous nations caught in between, fought for their survival. From Royal Navy impressment on the high seas and the goading speeches of the War Hawks to charges of cowardice against senior commanders, use the information provided to judge for yourself who was right and who was wrong. Select any of the three categories above to get started.