November 09, 2020
War of 1812 E42 Sharpshooters and Swordplay: Marines Strike from the Tops
The early naval battles of the War of 1812 had proven one thing—American warships and Marines could hold their own against the British Royal Navy. Constitution had already taken down Guerriere, but the fight wasn't over. Off the coast of Brazil, Constitution would face Java, and once again, Marine sharpshooters would help win the battle. Meanwhile, victories at sea boosted morale at home, and Marines were being recognized for their contributions. From the capture of Macedonian to securing American naval yards, the Corps was proving essential. But while the Navy thrived, Madison's strategy on land was unraveling. His failed invasion of Canada forced him to reconsider his reliance on the Army. The British weren't just sitting back—they were reinforcing their positions and sending Admiral John Borlase Warren to negotiate or, if necessary, crush American resistance. As the war dragged on, both sides prepared for their next move.
References
- Abbot, W. J. (1899). The naval history of the United States. New York: Peter Fenelon Collier.
- Brenton, E. P. (1970). The naval history of Great Britain: from the year Mdcclxxxiii. to Mdcccxxxvi. London: H. Colburn.
- Cooper, J. F. (1856). History of the Navy of the United States of America: continued to 1856. New York: Stringer & Townsend.
- Dundonald, T. E. of. (1860). The autobiography of a seaman. London: Bentley.
- James, W., & Chamier, F. (1847). The naval history of Great Britain, from the declaration of war by France in 1793, to the accession of George Iv. London: R. Bentley.
- Marshall, J. (1835). Royal Naval Biography: Or, Memoirs of the Services of All the Flag-Officers, Superannuated Rear-Admirals, Retired-Captains, Post-Captains, and Commanders. Place of publication not identified: publisher not identified.
- Miller, W. M., & Tyson, C. A. (1965). A chronology of the United States Marine Corps. Washington: Historical Branch, G-3 Division Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps.
- Roosevelt, T. (2011). The Naval War of 1812, or, The history of the United States Navy during the last war with Great Britain: to which is appended an account of the Battle of New Orleans. United States: publisher not identified.
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