The conditions for war began building slowly from the start of the century. Britain embroiled in war against Napoleon affected the 'free trade' of America through the denial of trade to neutral carriers. With Britain engaged in Europe America saw the opportunity to expand Northwards. The war was largely naval with seapower and lakes power playing a significant role in land battles.
The war ended with the Treaty of Gent signed on Christmas Eve 1814, but with the speed of communications at the time some fighting contiued into 1815.

• Constitution versus Guerriere 19 August 1812
• United States v Macedonian 25 October 1812
• Constitution versus Java 29 December 1812
• Shannon versus Chesapeake 01 June 1813
• Lake Champlain 11 September 1814