"A British View of the Naval War of 1812" Topic

"When considering the War of 1812, many Americans focus on the U.S. Navy's stirring victories over the Royal Navy in frigate duels. The British, however, emerged from the conflict with total command of the oceans and broad experience in blockade and amphibious operations.

The War of 1812 was a conflict between two very different naval powers, a pattern that is far more common in naval history than tends to be appreciated. Aside from a fundamental contrast in their strength—Britain had the world's leading navy while the United States lacked a battle fleet—the opposing sides used their navies for very different purposes. Because no large-scale naval clashes unfolded on the high seas, it is all too easy to underrate the crucial strategic dimensions of naval power and its importance for the character and development of the war.

The United States had maritime, rather than naval, strength. The American merchant marine had grown rapidly in size and importance after the Revolutionary War, and its range had greatly increased. However, there was no comparable expansion in American naval power because the new country did not seek command of the sea nor transoceanic commercial or political dominion. Indeed, the last American warship was sold in 1785…."
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Amicalement
Armand

Although published in 2008, it is well written and thoroughly documented dissertation. However, I wish he went into more detail on the British amphibious operations.

Nice find T. Thanks

A votre service mon ami!. (smile)

Amicalement
Armand

Well….

TMP link

TMP link

Armand

Any mention of the naval campaign on the Great Lakes?

B

Yes, there is discussion of the Great Lakes, but the article is a high level strategic review that is still relevant today.