People

During the War of 1812, people living in the Chesapeake Bay region endured great political, economic and emotional upheaval. People of various occupations, classes, races, genders, and ages played a role in the war, and many experienced tragedy and loss. Their bravery, resourcefulness and resilience influenced the evolution of the nation as a whole and enabled the country to survive its first test of democracy since the American Revolution.

Learn more about the people of this region and life during the war.

 

• 

  African Americans

  Free and enslaved African Americans played a significant role for both the United States and Great Britain in the War of 1812.

• 

  Indigenous people of America

  Native nations experienced the War of 1812 as part of a much longer struggle to defend homelands against American encroachment.

• 

  Women

  Learn more about the role women played during the War of 1812.

• 

  American Military

  The American army and navy were made up of U.S. regulars and citizen soldiers during the War of 1812.

• 

  American Leaders

  Learn more about the American leaders who played a significant role in the Chesapeake region during the War of 1812.

• 

  British Military

  Learn more about the British forces who invaded the Chesapeake region.