Who Won the War of 1812?

A common question online. First, let's get a few facts set straight...

1. Britain was not trying to reclaim their former territories

2. America declared war first

3. The reasons for declaring war were trade restrictions, impressment of US sailors which ended before the war, and expansion (possibly)

4. The major American victory at New Orleans was not part of the war, or any war really

*Note: any time I mention Canadians, I mean British settlers and loyalists in what would become Canada. Conversely, when I say British, I mean regulars from Britain.

Let's talk about the trade restrictions. At the time, Britain was at war with Napoleon. Napoleon attempted to block Britain from trading with its allies. So, Britain did the same thing. Since America was a major trade partner of France, their ships were often prevented from trading.

And about the first point, Britain did not really want to fight at all. Nearly all of their troops were preoccupied with the Napoleonic wars. Only later, after Napoleon was defeated in 1814 and exiled to Elba, did Britain start to send major reinforcements.

So who won? The war began with Canadian Militias and a few British regulars holding off the American Army. The USA won a few victories, but then Napoleon was defeated, and the UK went aggressive. They won multiple battles, and burned the White House. Then, the USA won at New York, forcing the British back, and then the Treaty of Ghent was signed. (This is very condensed of course). No land was exchanged, the borders remained where they were. But, since there were no phones or Internet, Andrew Jackson still crushed the British at New Orleans a couple months after the war officially ended. Ultimately, however, it was a draw; no land was gained or lost. However, it is arguable that Great Britain won, as they successfully defended Canada from the American offensive, and America was the aggressor. But, I maintain that a draw is a better description of the outcome.

What I find disturbing is the utter lack of knowledge that people have on this topic. I see Americans posting that America obviously won because Great Britain failed to retake America, or that the British gave up after New Orleans because they had been completely defeated, and had no troops left. They see it as a source of pride, "We beat the British twice!" Then I see Canadians who think that Canadians burned the White House and then just gave America back out of the kindness of their heart. No! First of all, it was not Canadians who burned the White House for the most part. Yes, it was mainly Canadians who defended Canada in the early stages, but British soldiers burned the White House. And, America won at New York after the burning of the White House, giving Britain cause to sign at Ghent. I have also heard of people being taught these things in school, which is horrifying.

So, next time you see a flame war about 1812 on YouTube or on Yahoo Answers, don't be biased, and acknowledge the facts.

What were you taught in school?