Featured Project: The War of 1812

Tomorrow, June 18, marks the anniversary of the beginning of the War of 1812. Just 29 years after the American Revolutionary War, the United States declared war on the British Empire in reaction to the Empire’s economic blockade of France and the forceful induction of American sailors into the British Royal Navy. Do you have any ancestors who fought in the War of 1812? Add them to this project and see how you can connect to other soldiers involved in the war. You can join this project and help build the family trees of other War of 1812 soldiers!

Here are a few notable profiles included:

James Madison – President Madison led the nation into the War of 1812 against Britain. He played an integral role in the formation of the country and is referred to as the “Father of the Constitution.”

 
William Henry Harrison – During the War of 1812, Harrison led the U.S. army to victory over the Shawnee chief Tecumseh at the Battle of the Thames.

 
Oliver Hazard Perry – He lead American forces to naval victory at the Battle of Lake Erie, earning the title “Hero of Lake Erie.”

 
Francis Scott Key – In 1814, Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the lyrics to what would become the U.S. national anthem as poem after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry by British forces during the War of 1812.

Jacob Jennings Brown – He was an army officer during the war and his successes on the northern border made him a war hero. In 1814, he was awarded a Congressional Gold medal in appreciation of his services during the war.

View the War of 1812 Project