An interesting little battle was the British raid on Essex, On a cold April night in 1814 a British raiding force rowed six miles up the Connecticut River to burn the privateers of Essex, then known as Pettipaug. Before the raid was over they had torched 27 ships - the single greatest loss of American shipping of the entire War of 1812. Going In Pettipaug is located six miles up the Connecticut River and a great sand bar at the mouth of the river prevented large naval vessels from entering. So, a raiding force of 136 sailors & Marines led by Captain Richard Coote, rowed six ship’s boats into the American heartland Their first task was to secure Saybrook Fort at the mouth of the river, so the raiding force would not be trapped on the way out. Unbelievably, two years into the war, the British found the fort without a garrison, guns, or ammunition! They continued to row upstream against wind and tide, arriving on the Pettipaug waterfront at 3:30 the next morning. According to Coote’s report to the Admiralty, “We found the town alarmed, the militia all on alert, and apparently disposed to oppose our landing with one four pound gun.” “After a volley of musketry from our marines,” Coote continued, “they prudently ceased firing.” “Captain Coote informed them that he was in sufficient force to affect the object of his expedition, which was to burn the vessels; and that if his party were not fired upon, no harm should fall upon the inhabitants, or the property unconnected with the vessels…” The good people of Pettipaug looked at the marines, did the math, and withdrew As Royal Marines secured the town, sailors set to burning ships and removing naval stores from waterfront chandleries and warehouses & by 10:00 the next morning the British had torched 27 vessels, keeping meticulous records of the names, tonnage, rigs, and potential armaments of each, from the 400-ton ship Osage to 25-ton coastal sloops. Getting Out Coote decided that proceeding through the narrower stretch of river farther downstream in broad daylight posed a greater risk than waiting for the cover of darkness. He anchored his boats and waited for nightfall. 600 US marines, federal troops and additional militia and volunteers with several artillery pieces were quickly set up on both sides of the river & at sunset the British began slipping downstream under cover of darkness. Two Royal Marines were killed as the boats ran the gauntlet, now illuminated by bonfires and picket boats with torches. The musket and cannon fire from the narrows was intense. Coote reported, “I believe no boat escaped without receiving more or less shot.” Yet the black of night and the swift outbound current enabled the British to drift silently past the fort at Saybrook, drawing only ineffectual parting shots from the defenders now gathered there. By 10:00 p.m. the raiding party had reached the safety of the British warships. For the loss of only two men killed and two seriously injured the British had torched more than two dozen American ships and taken or destroyed thousands of dollars’ worth of supplies and equipment. It was perhaps one of the most successful small boat raids in history. In 1848 the Naval General Service Medal was introduced, & back dated. 24 survivors of the raid got the medal & bar “For Special Boat Service 1814”
As an American I must say that the burning of Washington is taught in our schools at least when I was a kid 50 years ago. They never taught much about the failed American invasion of Canada and the burning of York by the Americans as well as the looting. Nor did they teach about the British exploding their Powder magazine at York which killed and injured many Americans who were in the wrong place . Ironically, the American Navy was bottled up and battered by a strong Gale much the same way as the British were hampered by a Storm and Tornado in Washington. Perhaps it was Divine Intervention to get us to stop this stupid war against each other and become friends!
They don’t teach about Andrew “ I dare you to try to stop me” Jackson and one of the greatest pirates in history sending the British running, possibly with the aid of a gator used as a improvised cannon. Oh and a really intolerable guy saved a couple of documents while the lobsters burned dc, yeah they don’t talk about that much either
As an Englishman, who has visited both the USA & Canada, and now lives in Australia, with several American friends, this is definitely my favourite History Chap presentation....and I've shared it quite a few times. Keep up the good work Mr Chap (Mr Green).
I got to speak with an american professor of political history who got excited when i mentioned Aug 24. He was so happy, & told me most of his students disbelieve him when he taught them about it. As a Canadian I think the burning of the white house was recompense for 3 days of american butchery at York, (modern day Toronto) the capital of Upper Canada. The maple leaf forever!
Cockburn definitely saw it as pay-back for York (Toronto). Lining up a story about the battles on the Great Lakes during this war so please make sure that you subscribe (and hit bell icon when doing) so you don't miss it.
My father was in the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry and told me his regiment had burnt down the White House in the war of 1812 and captured the American flag and took it back to England to the regimental barracks. He also told me the flag was returned back to the American Army by the KSLI during WW2 in a ceremony as a sign of friendship, which is on display in the regimental museum in Shropshire today . Remember most of the Americans were British or of British stock at this time claiming their rightful freedom from tyranny. A true family feud.
Thank you, I forgot to mention the regimental museum is in Shrewsbury castle , well worth a visit if you are in the area . The burning of the White House story is there together with photos off the regiment handing over the flag back to the U.S Army. KSLI was disbanded together with many other Infantry regiments.
@@acoupleofgsanrandaneaniandann My father told me it was handed back to the Americans during the war . I remember seeing a photograph of the handing over ceremony in the regimental museum in Shropshire. If you have information please let me know, this is an interesting part of history.
Actually, the British captured the American capital, Boston, in 1777. I suppose the difference is that in 1777, the British didn't recognize the United States, where is they did in the War of 1812. I've always considered it a very unfortunate conflict insofar as it would not have occurred with better communications.
Ron, you are right about the communication, both at the start and at the end of the war. My other video about 1812 talks about that subject in more detail.
An impressive monument, about one hundred feet tall, was erected to the memory of Major General Ross in his home town of Rostrevor, County Down, Northern Ireland. When he had been shot dead by two American snipers, his body was stored in a large barrel of brandy to preserve it and transported to Nova Scotia, where he was buried. From what I have read of him, he was a decent and honourable soldier and was only 47 or 48 years old when he died. From what I have read, the burning of Washington was in retaliation for Americans burning the town of York, (modern day Toronto). Sad to think of all those books being burned but then you did chuck all our cargo of tea in the harbour. Our two Nations have so much in common, I am glad that we are no longer enemies but allies and dare I say it, staunch friends who can rely upon one another. God bless each and every one of you, even the non-tea drinkers.
I am not sure the tea dumped in Boston Harbour was quite equivalent to what was destruction of the first national library of my country. As for tea drinkers you would be surprised how much tea Americans consume. Though mostly ice tea.
The war of 1812 I believe wasn’t the first time former slaves fought for the British. During the Revolutionary War former slaves enlisted in the British Army on the promise of given land in Canada after the war. The British kept their promise and gave those men land in Canada. Their decedents are still there today. One thing I can say about the British, they kept their promise to those black soldiers. One thing America never did for the black soldiers who fought for them.
An excellent historical account. Indeed I work in County Down and pass by General Ross's monument on a regular basis. On the monument it gives details of General Ross's achievements, and there's quite a lot. For a monument coming nearby 200 year's old it's in remarkable condition. A great accomplishment for Georgian workmanship.
The Americans burned York , now Toronto, Ontario earlier in the war of 1812. The Americans repeated invaded Canada and were beaten back. Sir Isaac Brock is a British officer who is a Canadian hero, who with few regulars, Canadian militia and loyal Native troops held the overwhelming numerous Americans back a Queenston Heights and defeated a overwhelming large army that could have turned the tide of the war. Sir Isaac died of wounds suffered at this battle and large column has been elected at the battle site.
As a student of history I appreciate you giving the war of "1812" some time in the spotlight. While my schooling skipped this period except that it happened I did learn from historical books and magazines so I understood the big picture easily. Some of the Regiment of Foot information was great.
Cheers Tom👍🏻 And of course the building was replaced by the iconic one you have today which probably would never had stood had we not torched the original.
I hate it when everyone calls the British Empire racist , look at how we treated those colonial marines , setting them free and giving them land as thanks for their service.
@@TheHistoryChap My ancestor may have thrown the first torch into the presidential mansion. Many of the soldiers who captured Washington later took part in the failed invasion of New Orleans. After the war many got land grants in the area of what is now Kingston Ontario. This gave Canada a militia of experienced soldiers who were able to safeguard Canada from possible future Yankee invasions.
Lol. Alas, these days, the British wouldn't know what to do with them if you did. Great video, but always thought the Battle was Bladensberg rather than Blandensberg?
Thank you for the education on this historic event. Unfortunately they don't teach, these historic events in public schools, thanks to you maybe people will now know about this huge event in our capital.
I enjoyed your presentation very much. I come from part of Northern Ireland near the village of Rostrevor named to mark the marriage of the of the Ross and Trevor families two local landowning families. There is also a prominent obelisk erected by the officers of the American campaign.
Australia didn't have all of those wealthy merchants working up the regular folks that it was about liberty and not about taxes cutting into the good thing they had going on..
Ended up loving this presentation. Had no idea about the Amercian slaves serving in the British army and gladdened that they found a home with land in Trindad. Subscribed.
Though ironic, it was nice that in the midst of burning the capital, Ross had some of his men guarding the private property of American civilians. It goes to show he had a certain respect for property rights. As for Ross, it makes sense he was born in Ireland. Just like his old superior, the Duke of Wellington, Ireland, like Scotland, has been known to produce some of the world's best fighters.
There are large chunks of DC that would only be improved if they were burned down. But it would be utter suicide for the British soldiers if they had to go into those neighborhoods today. They'd never come out alive. And we have to much respect and admiration for the British to treat them in such a cruel and inhumane way.
@@salzburg4321 Not talking about Georgetown. There's plenty of war zone in DC and only a stupid Democrat would try to deny that. But then again; honesty and truth are not in the Democrat lexicon. Neither is intellect. But we see ignorance and hypocrisy reign supreme.
As a Shropshire Lad I love this tale of possibly some of my forefathers burning the presidential mansion. Thirty years ago I was working in Connecticut and I recounted this story to my American friends, they had never heard of it. Some of these friends had ancestry dating back to the War of Independence. As I often say to some people, a hundred miles is a long way in Britain, in the USA a hundred years is ancient history.
Phil, I am getting quite a lot of comments from Americans saying they don't know much about this war. We know Brits don't know about it (it was all about Napoleon). Canadians do know about it so I guess they reckon they were the real winners.
@@TheHistoryChap The tale gets better. About 25 years ago a friend of mine was an officer in the Mercian Yeomanry, a descendant of the Shropshire Yeomanry. A fellow officer was to be married in Washington. A number of officers and men travelled to the wedding with full ceremonial uniforms and swords. They marched along Pennsylvania Avenue to the gates of the White House with their swords drawn to make an unannounced visit. The security people were utterly astonished but having temporarily confiscated their swords (terribly dangerous in a country full of guns) and presumably any boxes of matches, they were finally allowed into the garden. After a few photos were taken, off they went to the wedding leaving the CIA or whatever to contemplate upon the intricacies of the Special Relationship!
Sadly in America, the linerals have destroyed American history in government run schools. I'm descended from 23 Revolutionary soldiers. But my 13 yo daughter could care less.
@@TheHistoryChap True, for Canadians, 1812 is a nation-coalescing war (establishing their "not American" bona fides while uniting English- and French-speakers), just like Vimy Ridge 105 years later was a nation-defining battle. As such, the role of actual Canadians in the war tends to be overstated, most of the heavy lifting having been done by British regulars, of course.
Thank you for the video. Not nitpicking or being a smart arse, Bladensburg is pronounced Blay-dins-burg ( you’ll probably never need to know it again) & Maryland is Merr-uh-lind. Everyone on the other side of the pond misses that one. Cheers, again, from Northen Virginia
@@StevenKeery Originally called Garrison's Landing, Bladensburg was renamed in honor of Thomas Bladen, governor of Maryland, 1742-1747. Bladensburg was established in 1742 as a regional commercial center by an act of the Maryland General Assembly. The act also authorized the town commissioners to purchase 60 acres (240,000 m2) of land to be laid out in 1-acre (4,000 m2) lots. The act required that a house covering at least 400 square feet (37 m2) of ground with a brick or stone chimney be constructed within 18 months of the sale of the lot. As of 6 June 1746, only 18 of the lots had been improved according to the stipulations of the act. Christopher Lowndes' house, Bostwick, and those built by David Ross and William Hilleary (the William Hilleary House) were among them.[6
I googled Blay-dins-burg as way you spelt it and low and behold nothing came up if you say it's spelt that way so there for since 1700+ it's was know as BLADENSBURGH
Interesting fact: many of those black slaves that joined the British were actually trained as Royal Marine units on a little place off the coast of Virginia called Tangier Island. That tiny, little island was, and still is, an isolated community of Anglo-Americans who still had remarkably well preserved Elizabethan-style accents, which shocked many of the British soldiers who went through there. The locals even still held onto many old English customs that had long since died out back in the Mother Country, such as burying one’s dead in small family plots in front of the house marked with simple field stones instead of elaborately carved headstones. Some of the soldiers even remarked how they heard ballads sung by the locals that had been long forgotten at home. This quaint, old English dialect is sadly starting to die out, but can still be heard in some of the older residents. You can hear it in a documentary that was made back in the late 1980s called “American Tongues”, which can be found here on TH-cam.
Another excellent episode. Our high school education taught us that the British had burned Washington, but you provided many details on British personalities and movements that we don't get exposed to. While I am sure that burning Washington is a source of British pride, a better strategy would have been to attack the more important military target, Baltimore, first. Also, it seems quite likely that American motivation reached a new high following the embarrassment of having Washington burned.
Geoff, I'm not sure. I would gladly do as long as Americans don't mind a Brit telling a story from their history. I hope you have subscribed to my channel so you don't miss future videos.
Before the battle of Bladensburg James Madison road out to the troops with two pistols in his belt and encouraged the troops. This was also the shortest president in American history so think of the spectacle
Madison was the first of only two American presidents who ever visited the front lines of active battles, both of which occurred on the outskirts of Washington. The second was Lincoln, who narrowly missed being shot at the skirmish/battle at Fort Stevens in 1864.
Way cool! One of my favorite campaigns. I grew up in a Baltimore suburb along the transportation route to Washington. An invading army from the south must pass through there. Could Baltimore be defended had Ross made the decision? Was it called Blandensburg back then? (sarcasm) Bladensburg,with a long a. I've read or watched everything there is about the War of n 1812 since I was 12. Every time I review the story I learn something new or remember something I had forgot. Each detail refines the picture of these events, bringing me closer to traveling back in time. Great story-telling.
As many comments say, many Americans don't know much, or anything, about our own history. It's a shame. When I was in school, we at least got an over view of American history and then history buffs like me would read about and learn even more. I don't think much history is taught at all in schools over here anymore.
How many younger Americans today know which came first - the War of 1812 or the first Moon landing? God forbid they should know their own history, it might start them on the path to thinking and understanding things.
This is largely a forgotten war here in the U.S. as well. The big things that kids are taught out of it tend to be: Dolley Madison saving Washington's portrait before the White House was burned, Francis Scott Key writing what eventually became our national anthem (although it would be more than a century before his poem was put to music), and Andrew Jackson's victory at New Orleans. The causes of the war are largely glossed over as well. The emphasis is always on impressment and conveniently glosses over the desire for expansionism. Of course, the United States got most of what it wanted out of the war in comparison to Britain (who did at least maintain her borders and her belligerent maritime rights, although she didn't really bother to use them from that point on since Napoleon had been defeated).
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. Brits always surprised to learn about this war, the whole historical narrative being about Napoleon.
I'd like to know how "of course, the United States got most of what it wanted out of the war in comparison to Britain (who did at least maintain her borders)". Given that the United States declared war on Britain with the explicit purpose of conquering the rest of North America while the Brits were busy with Napoleon, an objective which was not achieved, I would say that the U.S. in fact lost the war. It never fails to amaze me how Americans can turn history into myth without the slightest hint of irony.
Perhaps someone else has already pointed out your error regarding an important place name in your narrative. It is Bladensburg, not Blandensburg. I have enjoyed and learned from your video. Thank you
They got their own back at new Orleans 1815 british slaughtered Due to blunder of frontal attack Against fortified positions News of the peace treaty slow in reaching them no wireless communications in those days!
The main reason for the burning of capital buildings in Washington by the British was in retaliation for the burning and looting of York (present day Toronto) and Newark (present day Niagara on the Lake).
I truly enjoyed this video even though it was concerning the conflict between America and the UK. I find it humorously ironic that the greatest defender of American liberty was a tornado which I'm certain the British infantry had not trained to advance upon! LOLThe fact that it caused more property damage than the British troops is another episode of strange anecdotal history of the United States. Excellent work, amigo y gracias para la infotmacion de la guerra de mil ochocientos doce.
Well done Sir👍. Though the incident may sting my pride as an American I still enjoyed your lecture thoroughly and the video production. Excellent and kudos!
If the destruction of York was uppermost in the minds of the British when they invaded Washington, then their actions are understandable. But I don't know that it should be a source of pride for modern day Britons, anymore than the burning of York should be a point of honor for Americans.
Yet another video on 1812 Ref the white house 🏠 there is a picture if Major General R Ross hanging on the wall in the WH also there parts of thd inner WH you can still see the burns marks on the wood and walls. One day I visit the WH
I think in history there is no actual Dolly madison There is no evidence of her in any activity in the 1812 war I think she was a bit of a propaganda thing
I mean if you have the chance to conquer someone capital you gotta take it. Its super embarrassing and something Americans try to ignore because it is so hilarious.
As an American, I can tell you it's something most of my countrymen don't give a shit about (if they know about it all). It was a long time ago for us. And Britain was a global power, and our nation was just getting started. Now if you want to start rubbing our noses in it, don't be surprised if a patriotic American breaks yours.
I have to disagree. York (now Toronto) was attacked and plundered in April 1813, and Washington by the British in August 1814. The burning of the American capital was considered to be very much a retaliation for the events a year before.
The only reason America has never been invaded since Roanoake and then 1814 is more to do with that it's a 'midspace' country, 'en continent' that's more a huge island between 2 oceans than the most powerful nation in the world.
Battle of Crysler’s Farm Nov. 11. 1813; American invaders defeated by a combined force o fBritish Regulars, Quebec Voltigeurs and Iroquois. This on My gréât x5 grandfather’s farm
The 4 different perspectives of this conflict, British, Canadian, American, and French lead to alot of blaming and moral outrage but in all honesty in America we literally dont learn about the War of 1812 except for the impression of sailors and the Battle of New Orleans. We didn’t learn a single fact about the Canadian Front at all. I don’t think many Americans think of the War of 1812 as anything more than “the empire strikes back” being basically the part 2 of the Revolution. Anyways I understand why the Canadians would be mad about York, during the American Civil War general Sherman’s troops basically burnt down all of Georgia and most people are still sour about it. Anyways I guess Canadians can use this war as some kind of pride and defiance against the US but I doubt anyone in the Government actually thought, “let’s invade canada and absorb it into the Union”. Much respect to Canada and the UK from Tennessee.
One minor note on an otherwise exception and accurate video, this was not in fact, the first time the American capital was occupied by a foreign power, during the Revolutionary War, Philadelphia was occupied by the British, so you lads have actually taken what was America's capital twice!
Canadian "militias"? If you include the separate "allies" of various First Nations Indians, then, yes. The Indians were the deciding factor in the fighting.
This cat is seldom, if ever, taught in American schools, (no surprise, perhaps). American kids are taught that this war was a victory for the U.S. thanks to Andy Jackson and the Battle of New Orleans. But the war was actually considered to be a draw, settled weeks earlier in Belgium, I believe.
Awesome doco, greatly filled in alot of gaps in my knowledge of this period. Well presented, easily digestible. One of my favourite periods is definitely the Napoleonic period. Pretty cool story about the colonial troops too.
I thoroughly enjoyed the burning of Washington .well done the King's Own, Royal Scots Fusiliers,East Essex, King's Own Shropshire light infantry, Royal Marines and Colonial Marines !🤣🤣 Almost as good as the battles of Stoney Creek and Crysler's Farm. Maybe you will cover those later .😃
Having my American roots planted after the battle of Trenton by a wounded Hessian soldier who stayed and became an American , I have no problem with acts of war by another nation. I am more upset by the attack on our capital by traitors born in this country . Besides , you sent us the Beatles , so all is forgiven !
What you did not know; Washington D.C. during the colonial period plantation farms were owned by blue bloods other wise known as cousins to the crown. In effect, the colonial wars were an internal rebellion of American Aristocrats vs. English Aristocrats (cousins). This situation continues for the 21st Century with legacy aristocrats confronting the crown in private affairs. Some very prominent legacy Aristocrats names are Hilton (Baron), Marriott (Duke) and Ramada (Infante) up to the Astor-Astoria (Duke). Astor married the Crown's daughter, Astor is the highest ranked colonial in the British System. There are far more legacy aristocrats in the States than exist in their home countries. The highest ranked in the French system is an indian princess who is the Dolphen of France. This system of cousins exists in all colonial states of the Americas.
Admiral Cockburn was so upset by criticisms and insults by the American press that he ordered his men to destroy all the letters “C” in all the printing presses in Washington!
4:11 Did not know there is a town in Virginia named California (bottom center of map). Bet that sticks in the craw of local conservatives when asked where they're from.
Good job covering a little-recounted piece of fascinating Anglo-American history. I'd like to point out that the Patuxent River is pronounced "Pah-TUX-ent" and the Battle of Bladensburg is pronounced "BLAY-dens-burg."
Additional tidbits of interest (Chesapeake Bay Flotilla edition): The CBF was actually a mixed force of white and African American sailors (also supplemented by a small force of US marines). One of the sailors, Charles Ball, has an autobiography. From his account, Ball believes the battle could have been won if the militia had charged instead of ran away "like sheep chased by dogs" Will you be covering any of the other engagements during the war? The Siege of Fort Erie was a particularity bloody battle.
I read a book on the British invasion and how Secretary Monroe's meddling led to the failure to hold the bridge. The Americans had three guns in a stout breastwork covering the bridge plus several naval 24 pound guns covering the British flank. Behind the breastworks over a thousand men were waiting, Monroe thought they were too close and "suggested" they be moved back. He also "wondered why the Calvary were guarding a ford, which he didn't think could be forded. Of course it could be and the British moved across! Seeing the troops moving rearward caused other troops to move as well and soon even the men manning the breastwork began thinking of retreat. Then The British Calvary showed up on their flank and what should have been a stalemate turned into a rout and thus the way was opened to the capital. The one thing America learned from this war was not to depend upon militia but instead upon a well trained standing army. It was the navy that really shone, well trained and disciplined they drove the British nuts by attacking merchantmen and sinking several Royal navy frigates. The attacks on the merchantmen drove insurance rates sky high, plus badly needed supplies for Wellington were lost and he advocated for a negotiated settlement. Baltimore of course had meanwhile built new defenses and raised a very large flag over the harbor fort. If the city had been taken earlier it would have crippled the American war effort as it was home to many manufacturers.
@@TheHistoryChap Wouldn't be the first time a general went wrong for glory! General Clark in Italy during WW2 wanted to make a publicity splash in Rome instead of chasing the Germans, unfortunately the Allies landed in Normandy the next day and the Germans escaped to fight another day.
@@TheHistoryChap Would love to see a video about British regiments at Yorktown and Saratoga and what happened to them. Did they earn great battle honors later or do the surrenders stain their reputation.
Its the (WE) commonwealth now?? 😂😂Lol how bizarre.....whatta fool we(indian) then in other threads its britisher this britisher that they are colonial genocidle maniacs i swear on shivinders life?? , jog on gupta..
The burning of Washington DC was burned for an obscure war crime. Newark in Canada was a residential area in Canada. In 1813 in the middle of winter the residents were turned out in the streets and the small community was burned to the ground. The British on seeing the event swore revenge the misery Brought by the senseless raid. One of the 4 ships used in the attack on Baltimore ended up sunk in the search for the north west passage. The "Terror " was modified for Franklin's expidition and received a coal powered engine and the strengthening of its hull .....really like the way you described history.
But the British are already burning homes in the Chesapeake like Hampton roads in June 1813 and rapping women. That’s the war crime long before the US did anything in Canada
Not sure if this has already been mentioned below, but according to U.S. Marine Corps history, the Marine Barracks at 8th and I Streets, Southeast Washington, D.C. (built in 1802) was not burned by the British--according to the Marines, "out of respect." Not sure if this is an urban legend, but leave it to the Marines (of whom I am one) to leverage any and all propaganda to their advantage!
Yeah, it would have been a glorious symbolic triumph for the British and a humiliating defeat for the Americans but for one little fact. Russia had just introduced to the world in 1812 the concept "Its ok to let your capitol burn, in fact, its a totally valid military strategy" I know your channels basis is military history focused on the British Army and I dont mean to diss them here, however.... 😂 The British burned Washington, yes.. But only because the Americans let them. Some kudos to the British command though, they burned the place down and they moved on. They didnt repeat Napoleons genius own-goal of hanging around afterwards waiting to see which comes first, terms of surrender or Winter.
Interesting point. I am not sure that was a conscious part of American strategy. But it kind of worked out that way with the British defeat before Baltimore soon thereafter.
A piece of scortched wood from the burning of The White House was in a glass case at my High School. It was removed from the building during a refubishment in the 1940s or 50s.
Francis Keys was kept on board the ship for safety during the Baltimore siege. The star spangled banner writer was released safely the following morning. Americans forget this, or do they?
Sadly, most schools in the USA do not teach our proud history anymore. As a proud American, it shames me they do not. The education administrations are too busy teaching, falsely, we are a racist country that should be ashamed. The pendulum is starting to swing back, so there is hope! Love your channel, keep it up!
@@TheHistoryChap Well, I got confused with the British Campaigning in Flanders during the 1692-1695 war. My humble apologies. Could you make a video about the Battle of Steenkerque in August 1692?
An official government PSA about the burning of Washington, D.C. tells the story of the head of the Patent Office convincing the British Officer sent to burn it not to. I wonder how much trouble that Officer got in to for not torching it?
And the officers of the Brittish fleet went to the US Senate chamber and voted to abolish The Constitution and return the nation to Brittish sovereignty. In recent years I have often wondered if we wouldn't have been better off had that vote been legally binding.
An interesting little battle was the British raid on Essex, On a cold April night in 1814 a British raiding force rowed six miles up the Connecticut River to burn the privateers of Essex, then known as Pettipaug. Before the raid was over they had torched 27 ships - the single greatest loss of American shipping of the entire War of 1812.
Going In
Pettipaug is located six miles up the Connecticut River and a great sand bar at the mouth of the river prevented large naval vessels from entering. So, a raiding force of 136 sailors & Marines led by Captain Richard Coote, rowed six ship’s boats into the American heartland
Their first task was to secure Saybrook Fort at the mouth of the river, so the raiding force would not be trapped on the way out. Unbelievably, two years into the war, the British found the fort without a garrison, guns, or ammunition!
They continued to row upstream against wind and tide, arriving on the Pettipaug waterfront at 3:30 the next morning.
According to Coote’s report to the Admiralty, “We found the town alarmed, the militia all on alert, and apparently disposed to oppose our landing with one four pound gun.” “After a volley of musketry from our marines,” Coote continued, “they prudently ceased firing.”
“Captain Coote informed them that he was in sufficient force to affect the object of his expedition, which was to burn the vessels; and that if his party were not fired upon, no harm should fall upon the inhabitants, or the property unconnected with the vessels…” The good people of Pettipaug looked at the marines, did the math, and withdrew
As Royal Marines secured the town, sailors set to burning ships and removing naval stores from waterfront chandleries and warehouses & by 10:00 the next morning the British had torched 27 vessels, keeping meticulous records of the names, tonnage, rigs, and potential armaments of each, from the 400-ton ship Osage to 25-ton coastal sloops.
Getting Out
Coote decided that proceeding through the narrower stretch of river farther downstream in broad daylight posed a greater risk than waiting for the cover of darkness. He anchored his boats and waited for nightfall.
600 US marines, federal troops and additional militia and volunteers with several artillery pieces were quickly set up on both sides of the river & at sunset the British began slipping downstream under cover of darkness.
Two Royal Marines were killed as the boats ran the gauntlet, now illuminated by bonfires and picket boats with torches. The musket and cannon fire from the narrows was intense. Coote reported, “I believe no boat escaped without receiving more or less shot.” Yet the black of night and the swift outbound current enabled the British to drift silently past the fort at Saybrook, drawing only ineffectual parting shots from the defenders now gathered there.
By 10:00 p.m. the raiding party had reached the safety of the British warships. For the loss of only two men killed and two seriously injured the British had torched more than two dozen American ships and taken or destroyed thousands of dollars’ worth of supplies and equipment. It was perhaps one of the most successful small boat raids in history.
In 1848 the Naval General Service Medal was introduced, & back dated. 24 survivors of the raid got the medal & bar “For Special Boat Service 1814”
Thanks for sharing.
As an American I must say that the burning of Washington is taught in our schools at least when I was a kid 50 years ago. They never taught much about the failed American invasion of Canada and the burning of York by the Americans as well as the looting. Nor did they teach about the British exploding their Powder magazine at York which killed and injured many Americans who were in the wrong place . Ironically, the American Navy was bottled up and battered by a strong Gale much the same way as the British were hampered by a Storm and Tornado in Washington. Perhaps it was Divine Intervention to get us to stop this stupid war against each other and become friends!
Tom, thanks for sharing those great insights.
The "Americans" were almost all British stock
@@ianmartin6023 most of us still are, especially here in New England! 😊🏴
Hallujah
They don’t teach about Andrew “ I dare you to try to stop me” Jackson and one of the greatest pirates in history sending the British running, possibly with the aid of a gator used as a improvised cannon.
Oh and a really intolerable guy saved a couple of documents while the lobsters burned dc, yeah they don’t talk about that much either
As an Englishman, who has visited both the USA & Canada, and now lives in Australia, with several American friends, this is definitely my favourite History Chap presentation....and I've shared it quite a few times.
Keep up the good work Mr Chap (Mr Green).
Many thanks
I got to speak with an american professor of political history who got excited when i mentioned Aug 24. He was so happy, & told me most of his students disbelieve him when he taught them about it. As a Canadian I think the burning of the white house was recompense for 3 days of american butchery at York, (modern day Toronto) the capital of Upper Canada.
The maple leaf forever!
Cockburn definitely saw it as pay-back for York (Toronto). Lining up a story about the battles on the Great Lakes during this war so please make sure that you subscribe (and hit bell icon when doing) so you don't miss it.
Your country was lucky. If Gen Montgomery had taken Quebec, you'd be American you hoser.
So York was Toronto. Good thing I came across your comment since I was wondering how the Americans managed to land in Yorkshire, England
My father was in the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry and told me his regiment had burnt down the White House in the war of 1812 and captured the American flag and took it back to England to the regimental barracks. He also told me the flag was returned back to the American Army by the KSLI during WW2 in a ceremony as a sign of friendship, which is on display in the regimental museum in Shropshire today . Remember most of the Americans were British or of British stock at this time claiming their rightful freedom from tyranny. A true family feud.
What an interesting addition to my story. Thanks for taking the time to share.
Thank you, I forgot to mention the regimental museum is in Shrewsbury castle , well worth a visit if you are in the area . The burning of the White House story is there together with photos off the regiment handing over the flag back to the U.S Army. KSLI was disbanded together with many other Infantry regiments.
Freedom from tyranny? Only if they were white.
If it was handed back why is it in Shropshire?
@@acoupleofgsanrandaneaniandann My father told me it was handed back to the Americans during the war . I remember seeing a photograph of the handing over ceremony in the regimental museum in Shropshire. If you have information please let me know, this is an interesting part of history.
Actually, the British captured the American capital, Boston, in 1777. I suppose the difference is that in 1777, the British didn't recognize the United States, where is they did in the War of 1812. I've always considered it a very unfortunate conflict insofar as it would not have occurred with better communications.
Ron, you are right about the communication, both at the start and at the end of the war. My other video about 1812 talks about that subject in more detail.
An impressive monument, about one hundred feet tall, was erected to the memory of Major General Ross in his home town of Rostrevor, County Down, Northern Ireland. When he had been shot dead by two American snipers, his body was stored in a large barrel of brandy to preserve it and transported to Nova Scotia, where he was buried. From what I have read of him, he was a decent and honourable soldier and was only 47 or 48 years old when he died.
From what I have read, the burning of Washington was in retaliation for Americans burning the town of York, (modern day Toronto).
Sad to think of all those books being burned but then you did chuck all our cargo of tea in the harbour.
Our two Nations have so much in common, I am glad that we are no longer enemies but allies and dare I say it, staunch friends who can rely upon one another.
God bless each and every one of you, even the non-tea drinkers.
Steven, Thanks for taking the time to comment.
I am not sure the tea dumped in Boston Harbour was quite equivalent to what was destruction of the first national library of my country. As for tea drinkers you would be surprised how much tea Americans consume. Though mostly ice tea.
The war of 1812 I believe wasn’t the first time former slaves fought for the British. During the Revolutionary War former slaves enlisted in the British Army on the promise of given land in Canada after the war. The British kept their promise and gave those men land in Canada. Their decedents are still there today. One thing I can say about the British, they kept their promise to those black soldiers. One thing America never did for the black soldiers who fought for them.
Thanks for sharing.
An excellent historical account. Indeed I work in County Down and pass by General Ross's monument on a regular basis. On the monument it gives details of General Ross's achievements, and there's quite a lot. For a monument coming nearby 200 year's old it's in remarkable condition. A great accomplishment for Georgian workmanship.
Thanks for your comments
As a Canadian, we remember the burning of York; Toronto.
So I believe.
Well known here in Canada I can assure you!
Glad to hear it.
Do it again, Uncle George! 😊🇬🇧
From: a Yankee Anglophile admirer of good ol’ Admiral Cockburn
Ha ha, you're not the first person to say that!
As a fellow American do us all a favor and emigrate back to Great Britain. If they will have you.
Again well described EXCELLENTLY done 5 stars!
Many thanks. The more I study this conflict the more fascinating I find it.
History is in the smallest details usually left out when written or spoken. Not in this case. Story well told with enthusiasm. Much enjoyed.
Very kind of you, thanks.
The Americans burned York , now Toronto, Ontario earlier in the war of 1812. The Americans repeated invaded Canada and were beaten back. Sir Isaac Brock is a British officer who is a Canadian hero, who with few regulars, Canadian militia and loyal Native troops held the overwhelming numerous Americans back a Queenston Heights and defeated a overwhelming large army that could have turned the tide of the war. Sir Isaac died of wounds suffered at this battle and large column has been elected at the battle site.
Thanks for adding to the story.
As a student of history I appreciate you giving the war of "1812" some time in the spotlight. While my schooling skipped this period except that it happened I did learn from historical books and magazines so I understood the big picture easily. Some of the Regiment of Foot information was great.
Glad you enjoyed, especially the Regiment of Foot information. More videos on their way.
Cheers Tom👍🏻
And of course the building was replaced by the iconic one you have today which probably would never had stood had we not torched the original.
I hate it when everyone calls the British Empire racist , look at how we treated those colonial marines , setting them free and giving them land as thanks for their service.
Thanks for posting your comment.
As a American, we don't hear about this one much lol. Thank you for that, it's nice to get some real history.
No, I guess the Battle of New Orleans features more prominently :)
@@TheHistoryChap My ancestor may have thrown the first torch into the presidential mansion. Many of the soldiers who captured Washington later took part in the failed invasion of New Orleans. After the war many got land grants in the area of what is now Kingston Ontario. This gave Canada a militia of experienced soldiers who were able to safeguard Canada from possible future Yankee invasions.
Love your videos brother! Sad truth is if the UK still want's DC and Baltimore I would sign that petition and let you have them lol.
Made me chuckle :) Thanks for watching.
Lol. Alas, these days, the British wouldn't know what to do with them if you did. Great video, but always thought the Battle was Bladensberg rather than Blandensberg?
I shouldn't worry were currently having problems keeping someone in No 10!
@@everestyeti If Boris gets back in then its an American back in Number 10. He was born in New York city !
As American I would like to tell you to GFY. We finally have a decent President back in the White House. And my best friend lives in Baltimore.
Thank you for the education on this historic event. Unfortunately they don't teach, these historic events in public schools, thanks to you maybe people will now know about this huge event in our capital.
Thank you for watching and for your kind words.
Retaliation for burning down my hometown, York, the future Toronto.
I enjoyed your presentation very much.
I come from part of Northern Ireland near the village of Rostrevor named to mark the marriage of the of the Ross and Trevor families two local landowning families.
There is also a prominent obelisk erected by the officers of the American campaign.
Thanks for sharing that additional information.
Australians were smarter; they used diplomacy to end British colonial rule without a shot fired.
Thanks for sharing your observation.
Australia didn't have all of those wealthy merchants working up the regular folks that it was about liberty and not about taxes cutting into the good thing they had going on..
Who’s face is on Australien money?
Ended up loving this presentation. Had no idea about the Amercian slaves serving in the British army and gladdened that they found a home with land in Trindad. Subscribed.
Thanks for your support.
Though ironic, it was nice that in the midst of burning the capital, Ross had some of his men guarding the private property of American civilians. It goes to show he had a certain respect for property rights. As for Ross, it makes sense he was born in Ireland. Just like his old superior, the Duke of Wellington, Ireland, like Scotland, has been known to produce some of the world's best fighters.
Great points Nathan.
@@TheHistoryChap Ulster Scots.
Compelling viewing - many thanks.
My pleasure
Love your work and I hope in time that you will do some videos on the British perspectives of battles during the American revolution.
Oh yes! Strangely not a subject taught in British schools 😆
@@TheHistoryChap Maybe you could cover the reasons it, the tax hikes to pay for wars against Indians etc that Britain was getting fed up with.
There are large chunks of DC that would only be improved if they were burned down. But it would be utter suicide for the British soldiers if they had to go into those neighborhoods today. They'd never come out alive. And we have to much respect and admiration for the British to treat them in such a cruel and inhumane way.
Thank you for taking the time to post your comment.
Haha, funny. Those neighborhoods you are referring to have few houses worth less than $1 million today.
@@salzburg4321 Not talking about Georgetown. There's plenty of war zone in DC and only a stupid Democrat would try to deny that. But then again; honesty and truth are not in the Democrat lexicon. Neither is intellect. But we see ignorance and hypocrisy reign supreme.
C'mon man, you know poor kids are just as smart as white kids. God save the - you know - the thing.
As a Shropshire Lad I love this tale of possibly some of my forefathers burning the presidential mansion. Thirty years ago I was working in Connecticut and I recounted this story to my American friends, they had never heard of it. Some of these friends had ancestry dating back to the War of Independence. As I often say to some people, a hundred miles is a long way in Britain, in the USA a hundred years is ancient history.
Cheers from Upper Canada, the land of Brock!
Phil, I am getting quite a lot of comments from Americans saying they don't know much about this war. We know Brits don't know about it (it was all about Napoleon). Canadians do know about it so I guess they reckon they were the real winners.
@@TheHistoryChap The tale gets better. About 25 years ago a friend of mine was an officer in the Mercian Yeomanry, a descendant of the Shropshire Yeomanry. A fellow officer was to be married in Washington. A number of officers and men travelled to the wedding with full ceremonial uniforms and swords. They marched along Pennsylvania Avenue to the gates of the White House with their swords drawn to make an unannounced visit. The security people were utterly astonished but having temporarily confiscated their swords (terribly dangerous in a country full of guns) and presumably any boxes of matches, they were finally allowed into the garden. After a few photos were taken, off they went to the wedding leaving the CIA or whatever to contemplate upon the intricacies of the Special Relationship!
Sadly in America, the linerals have destroyed American history in government run schools. I'm descended from 23 Revolutionary soldiers. But my 13 yo daughter could care less.
@@TheHistoryChap True, for Canadians, 1812 is a nation-coalescing war (establishing their "not American" bona fides while uniting English- and French-speakers), just like Vimy Ridge 105 years later was a nation-defining battle. As such, the role of actual Canadians in the war tends to be overstated, most of the heavy lifting having been done by British regulars, of course.
Thank you for the video.
Not nitpicking or being a smart arse, Bladensburg is pronounced Blay-dins-burg ( you’ll probably never need to know it again) & Maryland is Merr-uh-lind. Everyone on the other side of the pond misses that one.
Cheers, again, from Northen Virginia
I truck through Msryland all thr time and state sign says WELCOME YO MARYLAND and not ejst you say unless it's Native talk
B Ham: I believe it was named after Queen Mary, wife of King William lll. However the name may well have been corrupted in the local pronunciation.
@@StevenKeery Originally called Garrison's Landing, Bladensburg was renamed in honor of Thomas Bladen, governor of Maryland, 1742-1747. Bladensburg was established in 1742 as a regional commercial center by an act of the Maryland General Assembly. The act also authorized the town commissioners to purchase 60 acres (240,000 m2) of land to be laid out in 1-acre (4,000 m2) lots. The act required that a house covering at least 400 square feet (37 m2) of ground with a brick or stone chimney be constructed within 18 months of the sale of the lot. As of 6 June 1746, only 18 of the lots had been improved according to the stipulations of the act. Christopher Lowndes' house, Bostwick, and those built by David Ross and William Hilleary (the William Hilleary House) were among them.[6
I googled Blay-dins-burg as way you spelt it and low and behold nothing came up if you say it's spelt that way so there for since 1700+ it's was know as BLADENSBURGH
Many thanks.
Fantastic Video yet again Chris. Up The Brits 😘
Many thanks. Glad you enjoyed.
Interesting fact: many of those black slaves that joined the British were actually trained as Royal Marine units on a little place off the coast of Virginia called Tangier Island. That tiny, little island was, and still is, an isolated community of Anglo-Americans who still had remarkably well preserved Elizabethan-style accents, which shocked many of the British soldiers who went through there. The locals even still held onto many old English customs that had long since died out back in the Mother Country, such as burying one’s dead in small family plots in front of the house marked with simple field stones instead of elaborately carved headstones. Some of the soldiers even remarked how they heard ballads sung by the locals that had been long forgotten at home.
This quaint, old English dialect is sadly starting to die out, but can still be heard in some of the older residents. You can hear it in a documentary that was made back in the late 1980s called “American Tongues”, which can be found here on TH-cam.
Interesting? That is an incredible story. Thanks for sharing.
Very interesting, thank you
Another excellent episode. Our high school education taught us that the British had burned Washington, but you provided many details on British personalities and movements that we don't get exposed to. While I am sure that burning Washington is a source of British pride, a better strategy would have been to attack the more important military target, Baltimore, first. Also, it seems quite likely that American motivation reached a new high following the embarrassment of having Washington burned.
Steve, glad you enjoyed and I think you are right both about Baltimore and American motivation post the burning of Washington DC.
The United States lost the war in fact, if not on paper, so I don't think any additional "motivation" was of much use.
Oh gee, thanks. I know quite a lot about the The War of 1812.
Hope that you enjoyed it.
Has there been a video on the Alamo ,if not can I suggest it as a future topic
Geoff, I'm not sure. I would gladly do as long as Americans don't mind a Brit telling a story from their history. I hope you have subscribed to my channel so you don't miss future videos.
Ok I see your point ,thanks for your other excellent videos
Before the battle of Bladensburg James Madison road out to the troops with two pistols in his belt and encouraged the troops. This was also the shortest president in American history so think of the spectacle
Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Madison was the first of only two American presidents who ever visited the front lines of active battles, both of which occurred on the outskirts of Washington. The second was Lincoln, who narrowly missed being shot at the skirmish/battle at Fort Stevens in 1864.
What I would give to be a fly on the wall in those times.
I bet it would have been fascinating.
Now we know why Ross wasn't at Waterloo with Sharpe😉 Now that's soldering!😊
Nice connection.
Way cool! One of my favorite campaigns. I grew up in a Baltimore suburb along the transportation route to Washington. An invading army from the south must pass through there. Could Baltimore be defended had Ross made the decision?
Was it called Blandensburg back then? (sarcasm)
Bladensburg,with a long a.
I've read or watched everything there is about the War of n 1812 since I was 12.
Every time I review the story I learn something new or remember something I had forgot. Each detail refines the picture of these events, bringing me closer to traveling back in time.
Great story-telling.
Many thanks for watching.
As many comments say, many Americans don't know much, or anything, about our own history. It's a shame. When I was in school, we at least got an over view of American history and then history buffs like me would read about and learn even more. I don't think much history is taught at all in schools over here anymore.
That's a shame.Thanks for taking the time to comment.
yes how many Americans understand the significance of that line in the anthem "in the rockets red glare"
Absolutely - a direct reference to those rockets.
How many younger Americans today know which came first - the War of 1812 or the first Moon landing? God forbid they should know their own history, it might start them on the path to thinking and understanding things.
This is largely a forgotten war here in the U.S. as well. The big things that kids are taught out of it tend to be: Dolley Madison saving Washington's portrait before the White House was burned, Francis Scott Key writing what eventually became our national anthem (although it would be more than a century before his poem was put to music), and Andrew Jackson's victory at New Orleans. The causes of the war are largely glossed over as well. The emphasis is always on impressment and conveniently glosses over the desire for expansionism. Of course, the United States got most of what it wanted out of the war in comparison to Britain (who did at least maintain her borders and her belligerent maritime rights, although she didn't really bother to use them from that point on since Napoleon had been defeated).
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. Brits always surprised to learn about this war, the whole historical narrative being about Napoleon.
I'd like to know how "of course, the United States got most of what it wanted out of the war in comparison to Britain (who did at least maintain her borders)". Given that the United States declared war on Britain with the explicit purpose of conquering the rest of North America while the Brits were busy with Napoleon, an objective which was not achieved, I would say that the U.S. in fact lost the war. It never fails to amaze me how Americans can turn history into myth without the slightest hint of irony.
Perhaps someone else has already pointed out your error regarding an important place name in your narrative. It is Bladensburg, not Blandensburg. I have enjoyed and learned from your video. Thank you
Thank you for taking the time to comment.
They got their own back at new Orleans 1815 british slaughtered
Due to blunder of frontal attack
Against fortified positions
News of the peace treaty slow in reaching them no wireless communications in those days!
Indeed.Thank you for taking the time to comment.
The main reason for the burning of capital buildings in Washington by the British was in retaliation for the burning and looting of York (present day Toronto) and Newark (present day Niagara on the Lake).
Thanks for sharing.
I truly enjoyed this video even though it was concerning the conflict between America and the UK. I find it humorously ironic that the greatest defender of American liberty was a tornado which I'm certain the British infantry had not trained to advance upon! LOLThe fact that it caused more property damage than the British troops is another episode of strange anecdotal history of the United States. Excellent work, amigo y gracias para la infotmacion de la guerra de mil ochocientos doce.
Based upon the British army at the time I am shocked that they didn't advance on the tornado!
@@TheHistoryChap Fix bayonets!
Just subscribed. Your history channel is informative and great to watch. Keep up the good work!
Many thanks for your support.
Well done Sir👍. Though the incident may sting my pride as an American I still enjoyed your lecture thoroughly and the video production. Excellent and kudos!
Many thanks. Have a great weekend.
If the destruction of York was uppermost in the minds of the British when they invaded Washington, then their actions are understandable. But I don't know that it should be a source of pride for modern day Britons, anymore than the burning of York should be a point of honor for Americans.
@@charlesmartin1121 I fully agree with your statement!
Yet another video on 1812 Ref the white house 🏠 there is a picture if Major General R Ross hanging on the wall in the WH also there parts of thd inner WH you can still see the burns marks on the wood and walls. One day I visit the WH
Thanks for sharing. Appreciated.
You make your posts so interesting thank you for posting this and Mentioning the Colonial Marines very interesting
My pleasure. Thanks for watching.
Keep up the good work very enlightening people on veritas history that ultimately affects everyone!
Thanks for your support.
Really enjoyed this history lessen.
Dolly Madison is mainly known in America for her excellent ice cream bars and cakes
And Napoleon is known for his cakes......
Ice cream bars?
Onwards and upwards! :)
I think in history there is no actual Dolly madison There is no evidence of her in any activity in the 1812 war I think she was a bit of a propaganda thing
I mean if you have the chance to conquer someone capital you gotta take it. Its super embarrassing and something Americans try to ignore because it is so hilarious.
"Can't look a gift horse in the mouth" as the Enblish would say.
As an American, I can tell you it's something most of my countrymen don't give a shit about (if they know about it all). It was a long time ago for us. And Britain was a global power, and our nation was just getting started. Now if you want to start rubbing our noses in it, don't be surprised if a patriotic American breaks yours.
Wasn't the burning of York the motivation for the retaliatory action at Washington?
Anyway, enjoyed the video, good work.
It was the other way round.Thank you for taking the time to comment.
I have to disagree.
York (now Toronto) was attacked and plundered in April 1813, and Washington by the British in August 1814.
The burning of the American capital was considered to be very much a retaliation for the events a year before.
@@rangerista3933 Historians agree on this
@@salzburg4321 That it was a British retaliation?
Anyway, we're pals now and always will be 🇬🇧+🇺🇲👍
Let’s hear about the burning of York/ Toronto!!
All in good time
They're not foreign troops, they're British!
Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Thanks ,Chris for the video!As always,you did not disappoint.
Margaret, that's very kind of you. Thanks.
The only reason America has never been invaded since Roanoake and then 1814 is more to do with that it's a 'midspace' country, 'en continent' that's more a huge island between 2 oceans than the most powerful nation in the world.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Battle of Crysler’s Farm Nov. 11. 1813; American invaders defeated by a combined force o fBritish Regulars, Quebec Voltigeurs and Iroquois. This on My gréât x5 grandfather’s farm
Wow. What a great story. Thanks for sharing.
The 4 different perspectives of this conflict, British, Canadian, American, and French lead to alot of blaming and moral outrage but in all honesty in America we literally dont learn about the War of 1812 except for the impression of sailors and the Battle of New Orleans. We didn’t learn a single fact about the Canadian Front at all. I don’t think many Americans think of the War of 1812 as anything more than “the empire strikes back” being basically the part 2 of the Revolution. Anyways I understand why the Canadians would be mad about York, during the American Civil War general Sherman’s troops basically burnt down all of Georgia and most people are still sour about it. Anyways I guess Canadians can use this war as some kind of pride and defiance against the US but I doubt anyone in the Government actually thought, “let’s invade canada and absorb it into the Union”. Much respect to Canada and the UK from Tennessee.
Thanks for taking the time to comment
So many worldwide wish this would happen again but nationwide.
Americans must be forever vigilant.
Thank you for taking the time to comment
One minor note on an otherwise exception and accurate video, this was not in fact, the first time the American capital was occupied by a foreign power, during the Revolutionary War, Philadelphia was occupied by the British, so you lads have actually taken what was America's capital twice!
It gets better and better! :)
Canadian "militias"? If you include the separate "allies" of various First Nations Indians, then, yes. The Indians were the deciding factor in the fighting.
Thank you for taking the time to comment.
This cat is seldom, if ever, taught in American schools, (no surprise, perhaps).
American kids are taught that this war was a victory for the U.S. thanks to Andy Jackson and the Battle of New Orleans. But the war was actually considered to be a draw, settled weeks earlier in Belgium, I believe.
Thank you for taking the time to comment
Awesome doco, greatly filled in alot of gaps in my knowledge of this period. Well presented, easily digestible. One of my favourite periods is definitely the Napoleonic period. Pretty cool story about the colonial troops too.
Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching.
I thoroughly enjoyed the burning of Washington .well done the King's Own, Royal Scots Fusiliers,East Essex, King's Own Shropshire light infantry, Royal Marines and Colonial Marines !🤣🤣
Almost as good as the battles of Stoney Creek and Crysler's Farm.
Maybe you will cover those later .😃
On my ever-growing list. :)
Having my American roots planted after the battle of Trenton by a wounded Hessian soldier who stayed and became an American , I have no problem with acts of war by another nation. I am more upset by the attack on our capital by traitors born in this country . Besides , you sent us the Beatles , so all is forgiven !
The Beatles probably had a greater impact!
I don't suppose we could convince you guys to do it again. pretty please?
Don’t think we could we’re rubbish
Thank you for taking the time to comment.
What you did not know; Washington D.C. during the colonial period plantation farms were owned by blue bloods other wise known as cousins to the crown. In effect, the colonial wars were an internal rebellion of American Aristocrats vs. English Aristocrats (cousins). This situation continues for the 21st Century with legacy aristocrats confronting the crown in private affairs. Some very prominent legacy Aristocrats names are Hilton (Baron), Marriott (Duke) and Ramada (Infante) up to the Astor-Astoria (Duke). Astor married the Crown's daughter, Astor is the highest ranked colonial in the British System. There are far more legacy aristocrats in the States than exist in their home countries. The highest ranked in the French system is an indian princess who is the Dolphen of France. This system of cousins exists in all colonial states of the Americas.
Thanks for sharing
That just goes to show you got the worst of the bunch, the best stayed at home Come to think of it that explains a lot.
Robert Ross is buried in the Old Halifax burning ground. In a beautiful tomb. Honouring his military service to the empire
Thanks for watching my video & your feedbacl.
American invasions of Canada were beaten back by militia, British regulars and 1st Nations warriors.
That last group doesn't get nearly enough credit.
That's a very fair point. Thanks for reminding me and everyone else.
The First Nation was defeated and the majority of troops were British
That's "Executive Mansion".
Thank you for taking the time to comment
Admiral Cockburn was so upset by criticisms and insults by the American press that he ordered his men to destroy all the letters “C” in all the printing presses in Washington!
I had heard that. Thanks for sharing.
Good information at the end.
Thank you.
4:11 Did not know there is a town in Virginia named California (bottom center of map). Bet that sticks in the craw of local conservatives when asked where they're from.
Ha ha. That's made me chuckle :)
There is also a town on east coast of UK called California another called Washington up in North East of UK 🇬🇧
@@evans0109 Washington is quite a common place name in the UK. There's one in Sussex, too.
@@davidwhite4874 Sussex is a county in UK
@@truckingcowboyo Yes...................I know.
Those Red Coats were quite Tubby back then.
Thanks for taking the time to comment
You learn something new every day, I think we never live long enough to learn everything there is to learn. Thank you Chris ❤
My pleasure. Glad you found it interesting.
@@TheHistoryChap I usually do. Left a comment on one of the Victoria Cross videos
Good job covering a little-recounted piece of fascinating Anglo-American history. I'd like to point out that the Patuxent River is pronounced "Pah-TUX-ent" and the Battle of Bladensburg is pronounced "BLAY-dens-burg."
Thanks Kate.
The British kicking some American ass!!
It was one of those wars where both sides got their asses kicked at different moments.
the Americans showed no such restraint when it torched York [Toronto], capital of Upper Canada. Near total devastation
Absolutely, it was a nasty war on the Canadian / US border. Cockburn definitely thought it was pay-back.
Additional tidbits of interest (Chesapeake Bay Flotilla edition):
The CBF was actually a mixed force of white and African American sailors (also supplemented by a small force of US marines).
One of the sailors, Charles Ball, has an autobiography. From his account, Ball believes the battle could have been won if the militia had charged instead of ran away "like sheep chased by dogs"
Will you be covering any of the other engagements during the war? The Siege of Fort Erie was a particularity bloody battle.
Many thanks for sharing. Yes, I will be covering other engagements. Watch this space.
Excellent video 📹
Unfortunately a source of information for English comedians on their circuits and videos
I aim to please!
I read a book on the British invasion and how Secretary Monroe's meddling led to the failure to hold the bridge. The Americans had three guns in a stout breastwork covering the bridge plus several naval 24 pound guns covering the British flank. Behind the breastworks over a thousand men were waiting, Monroe thought they were too close and "suggested" they be moved back. He also "wondered why the Calvary were guarding a ford, which he didn't think could be forded. Of course it could be and the British moved across! Seeing the troops moving rearward caused other troops to move as well and soon even the men manning the breastwork began thinking of retreat. Then The British Calvary showed up on their flank and what should have been a stalemate turned into a rout and thus the way was opened to the capital. The one thing America learned from this war was not to depend upon militia but instead upon a well trained standing army. It was the navy that really shone, well trained and disciplined they drove the British nuts by attacking merchantmen and sinking several Royal navy frigates. The attacks on the merchantmen drove insurance rates sky high, plus badly needed supplies for Wellington were lost and he advocated for a negotiated settlement. Baltimore of course had meanwhile built new defenses and raised a very large flag over the harbor fort. If the city had been taken earlier it would have crippled the American war effort as it was home to many manufacturers.
Strategically, the British should have gone for Baltimore.
@@TheHistoryChap Wouldn't be the first time a general went wrong for glory! General Clark in Italy during WW2 wanted to make a publicity splash in Rome instead of chasing the Germans, unfortunately the Allies landed in Normandy the next day and the Germans escaped to fight another day.
I grew up in Upper Marlboro and am very familiar with the history of this action. I really enjoyed you presentation.
Thank you for watching.
Been waiting for this one. The only time we commonwealth folk can annoy the yanks when they mention Yorktown and Saratoga.
It's like our Joker card!
@@TheHistoryChap Would love to see a video about British regiments at Yorktown and Saratoga and what happened to them. Did they earn great battle honors later or do the surrenders stain their reputation.
I would immediately counter with Baltimore and New Orleans. But why can't we all just get along?
@@TheHistoryChap I don't know what game you are playing? But the Americans served aces at the Battle of Baltimore.
Its the (WE) commonwealth now?? 😂😂Lol how bizarre.....whatta fool we(indian) then in other threads its britisher this britisher that they are colonial genocidle maniacs i swear on shivinders life?? , jog on gupta..
We did a little trolling
Really?
@@TheHistoryChap Yeah
The burning of Washington DC was burned for an obscure war crime. Newark in Canada was a residential area in Canada. In 1813 in the middle of winter the residents were turned out in the streets and the small community was burned to the ground. The British on seeing the event swore revenge the misery Brought by the senseless raid. One of the 4 ships used in the attack on Baltimore ended up sunk in the search for the north west passage. The "Terror " was modified for Franklin's expidition and received a coal powered engine and the strengthening of its hull .....really like the way you described history.
Fascinating. Thanks for sharing.
But the British are already burning homes in the Chesapeake like Hampton roads in June 1813 and rapping women. That’s the war crime long before the US did anything in Canada
Not sure if this has already been mentioned below, but according to U.S. Marine Corps history, the Marine Barracks at 8th and I Streets, Southeast Washington, D.C. (built in 1802) was not burned by the British--according to the Marines, "out of respect." Not sure if this is an urban legend, but leave it to the Marines (of whom I am one) to leverage any and all propaganda to their advantage!
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Yeah, it would have been a glorious symbolic triumph for the British and a humiliating defeat for the Americans but for one little fact. Russia had just introduced to the world in 1812 the concept "Its ok to let your capitol burn, in fact, its a totally valid military strategy" I know your channels basis is military history focused on the British Army and I dont mean to diss them here, however.... 😂 The British burned Washington, yes.. But only because the Americans let them.
Some kudos to the British command though, they burned the place down and they moved on. They didnt repeat Napoleons genius own-goal of hanging around afterwards waiting to see which comes first, terms of surrender or Winter.
Thanks for contributing. I’m intrigued that the Americans had decided to copy the Russians. Do you have a reference for that or is that your hunch?
Absolute rubbish.
Interesting point. I am not sure that was a conscious part of American strategy. But it kind of worked out that way with the British defeat before Baltimore soon thereafter.
A piece of scortched wood from the burning of The White House was in a glass case at my High School. It was removed from the building during a refubishment in the 1940s or 50s.
Thanks for taking the time to share that fact
Great video, Chris, but you neglected to mention that the Yanks had burned York, the Capital of Upper Canada, before the British returned the favour!
Thanks for watching & for the feedback!
Fantastic video on a very unknown piece of military history. Also great to see the both the King’s Own and KSLI getting a mention!
Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.
Francis Keys was kept on board the ship for safety during the Baltimore siege. The star spangled banner writer was released safely the following morning. Americans forget this, or do they?
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General Ross, from Rostrevor, a good County Down man like myself.
Thanks for commenting.
Sadly, most schools in the USA
do not teach our proud history anymore. As a proud American, it shames me they do not. The education administrations are too busy teaching, falsely, we are a racist country that should be ashamed. The pendulum is starting to swing back, so there is hope! Love your channel, keep it up!
Thanks for watching my video & for your feedback.
... you know, Nivelles is not in France .... just as Poirot is not French ;-).
You've got the wrong Nivelle. The battle was at the one just inside south western France.
@@TheHistoryChap Well, I got confused with the British Campaigning in Flanders during the 1692-1695 war. My humble apologies.
Could you make a video about the Battle of Steenkerque in August 1692?
An official government PSA about the burning of Washington, D.C. tells the story of the head of the Patent Office convincing the British Officer sent to burn it not to. I wonder how much trouble that Officer got in to for not torching it?
Thanks for watching my video
And the officers of the Brittish fleet went to the US Senate chamber and voted to abolish The Constitution and return the nation to Brittish sovereignty. In recent years I have often wondered if we wouldn't have been better off had that vote been legally binding.
Ha ha, I’m sure his majesty would always be willing to take you back
As a Dane I can say that the British have a history of burning capitals. 😬🤣
Whereas we remember Cnut :)
And the Danes have a history of burning English villages. I guess it used to be a fun way to spend an evening.
@@TheHistoryChap
Check & mate to you.
@@billybobhouse9559 there more villages than capitals. But touche i have been checked and mated.
Well done ;)
The tiger of Mysore Tipu Sultan employed a rocket core of 5,000 men.
He did indeed. Thanks for sharing.