People

During the War of 1812, people living in the Chesapeake Bay region endured great political, economic and emotional upheaval. Men and women of various occupations, classes, races, and ages played a role in the war, and many experienced tragedy and loss. Their bravery, resourcefulness and resilience influenced the evolution of the nation as a whole and enabled the country to survive its first test of democracy since the American Revolution.

Learn more about the people of this region and life during the war.

 

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  African Americans

  Free and enslaved African Americans played a significant role for both the United States and Great Britain in the War of 1812.

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  American Indians

  Native nations experienced the War of 1812 as part of a much longer struggle to defend homelands against American encroachment.

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  American Military

  The American army and navy were made up of U.S. regulars and citizen soldiers during the War of 1812.

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  American Leaders

  Learn more about the American leaders who played a significant role in the Chesapeake region during the War of 1812.

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  British Military

  Learn more about the British forces who invaded the Chesapeake region.

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  Women

  Learn more about the role women played during the War of 1812.