The Second War for Independence

The War of 1812 or the second war for independence was a time of immense change in America, especially in the way Americans thought of themselves and their nation, which was finally recognized in international politics. The identity of America was the nationalism the people shared in their own country. Also, the War of 1812 helped shape the political and geographical identity of America. America had experienced this during the War of 1812 and during the post-war period following it. Therefore, to a great extent the War of 1812 did establish a sense of American identity.

            Initially, when considering the American feelings toward their nation, it is evident there is an increase in national pride. The Americans during the War of 1812 shared a common enemy, the British, which allowed for more unity.  Although several Americans mostly Federalists have opposed the war, the United States had to amalgamate and stop enemy invasions, which was effectively done in the battle over New Orleans for example. Another example would be when the British were trying to invade Baltimore and fought with Fort McHenry. In both of these situations the Americans united and worked together to resist the British. In the battle over New Orleans Andrew Jackson, successfully gathered as many troops as he could to take up arms, fortify their city, and he tried to create more pride in their effort by trapping all the citizens within the walls of New Orleans. However, there was a bigger sense of nationalism after the war, because Americans now realized the potential of their nation. Americans knew that their perseverance had paid off. After the war there was more unification in the political parties. There was a decline in the presence of the Federalists and this eventually meant that political ideas were more unified. Thus the great debates between the Republicans and Federalists had ended.

            Furthermore, the war of 1812 did shape the political identity of America. It did this by causing international recognition of the United States of America. Countries such as Britain, France, and many more could now feel the presence of the Americans. For example, during the War of 1812, the Americans have limited trade with foreign countries, this lead to great economic depression not only to America but it affected the European countries greatly too, especially Britain. Additionally, the effects of the War of 1812, which was officially ended by the Treaty of Ghent, which was more of a compromise to keep peace rather then a permanent agreement. However, this treaty allowed peace, and this allowed America to start to merchant once again.