Memorable milestones of the War of 1812

June 18, 1812 — United States president James Madison declares war on Great Britain to combat British control of American international trade and Britain’s alleged support of Native Americans in their territorial disputes with the U.S.

Aug. 13, 1812 — The United States Navy wins its first ship-to-ship action against the Royal Navy when the USS Essex captures a British sloop, the Alert.

Aug. 16, 1812 — Allied forces led by Tecumseh, a leader of the Shawnee, and Major-general Sir Isaac Brock capture Detroit, Michigan.

June 21-24, 1813 — After overhearing American officers plan a surprise attack on a British outpost, Laura Secord slipped past American sentries and began walking 32-kilometres to warn the British. On the way she told Mohawk and Anishnaabe warriors who ambushed and defeated the Americans at the Battle of Beaver Dams in Upper Canada.

Aug. 24, 1814 — British forces occupy Washington and set fire to the White House.

Sept. 13-14, 1814 — American forces at Fort McHenry prevent a British army and fleet from capturing Baltimore, Maryland. Baltimore lawyer Francis Scott Key watched the overnight battle from the deck of a British ship and saw that the fort’s flag was still flying in the morning, sparking the inspiration for his poem which would become the lyrics to the Star-Spangled Banner.

Dec. 24, 1814 — American and British negotiators agree on terms to end the War of 1812 and sign the Treaty of Ghent.

Jan. 8, 1815 — American forces win the Battle of New Orleans, La., the last battle of the War of 1812.