Making History Come Alive Newsletter offers the burning of Washington in 1812
The Burning of Washington occurred during the War of 1812 between the United States and the United Kingdom. This dramatic event took place on August 24, 1814, when British forces captured Washington, D.C., and set fire to many of the city’s public buildings, including the White House and the Capitol.
Here are key details about the Burning of Washington:
Background
- War of 1812: The War of 1812 was fought over a range of issues including trade restrictions imposed by Britain, the impressment of American sailors into the British Navy, and British support of Native American tribes against American expansion.
- British Strategy: By 1814, Britain had defeated Napoleon in Europe and was able to redirect more military resources to the war in North America. The British aimed to strike a significant blow to American morale by attacking the nation's capital.
The Attack
- Battle of Bladensburg: On August 24, 1814, British forces led by Major General Robert Ross defeated American troops at the Battle of Bladensburg, just northeast of Washington, D.C. The American forces, many of whom were inexperienced militia, were quickly overwhelmed.
- Entry into Washington: Following the victory at Bladensburg, British troops marched into Washington, D.C. With little resistance, they began setting fire to key government buildings.
The Burning
- White House: The British entered the White House, where they dined on food left by the fleeing Americans before setting the mansion ablaze. The interior and much of the exterior were gutted by the fire.
- Capitol Building: The Capitol, which housed the Senate and House of Representatives, was also set on fire. The Library of Congress, located within the Capitol, suffered significant losses.
- Other Buildings: The British also burned the Treasury Building, the Department of War, and other public buildings. However, private properties were largely spared.
Aftermath
- Thunderstorm: A severe thunderstorm, possibly a hurricane, hit Washington, D.C., the day after the burning, helping to extinguish the fires and causing further damage.
- Reconstruction: The destruction of Washington, D.C., was a significant blow to American morale. However, the city was quickly rebuilt, and the White House and Capitol were reconstructed. President James Madison and Congress continued to govern from temporary quarters until the buildings were restored.