Ocean

Maritime issues were at the heart of the War of 1812. Preoccupied with the Napoleonic conflict, Britain shut down U.S. exports with its strict blockade of European ports. The Royal Navy also harassed neutral vessels and impressed American citizens into service on British ships. This arrogance on the high seas goaded the United States into declaring war. The subsequent naval battles and attacks on enemy shipping left few of the globe's oceans untouched. From Norway to Brazil and around Cape Horn into the Pacific and Indian Oceans, privateers and warships fought each other with cannon and grappling hook.

Select a ship battle to view the paintings that celebrated the victories at sea.

Impressment and The Royal Navy:
A British Perspective
An American Perspective

Trade Embargoes:
A British Perspective
An American Perspective