►  How does the continuing war between England and France in the late 1700's to early 1800's create the circumstances leading to the War of 1812?
►  Why does New England strongly oppose the Embargo Act of 1803, which is a response to the continued seizing of American ships in international waters by England and France? 
►  What is the unintended favorable effect of the Embargo Act for the U.S.?
►  What is the escalation in 1812 by the English and French that caused President Madison to issue an ultimatum to both countries, threatening war?
►  Although both England and France send conciliatory responses to the ultimatum, what is the official reason America declares war on England?
►  What is the underlying reason the U.S. declared war, having nothing to do with the seas?
►  Why is the military woefully unprepared for the war which became an unmitigated disaster?
►  What is the far reaching effect of the Battle of New Orleans, which occurs after the peace treaty of 1814 was signed but before news of the end of the war reachs the U.S.?
►  What are the lessons of the war that are soon forgotten?
►  What is the legacy of the war which has serious consequences for the U.S. far into the future?