The Chesapeake Campaign and Battle of Baltimore

This presentation explores the pivotal campaign of the War of 1812 that occurred in the Chesapeake Bay region, and particularly the events in Maryland. It will discuss such topics as the causes and conduct of the war, strategic setting of 1813-14, why the Chesapeake became a theater of war, the participation of Regular Army and Maryland Militia soldiers as well as civilians in the defense of the national capital and the state. The disasters at the battle of Bladensburg and subsequent British raid on Washington, as well as the land-sea attack on Baltimore will be covered in detail. As a result, participants will recognize the significance of the campaign in relation to the course and outcomes of the War of 1812, as well as dispel some popular misperceptions about that conflict.