This path-breaking book by America's leading authority on the War of 1812 separates fact from fiction, myth from misconception. Few issues escape the author's gaze. He asks some basic questions: what caused the war; when did the war begin and end; what were the roles of Canadian traitor Joseph Willcocks, Mohawk leader John Norton and Canadian heroine Laura Secord; who killed Tecumseh and who shot General Isaac Brock; when did the term 'War of 1812' come into general use; who were the best and worst officers; and, who were the unsung heroes. The book also asks some big questions, sometimes presenting controversial answers: what caused the war; was the declaration of war a bluff; what impact did logistics have; how effective was civilian leadership; who actually won the war; and, what was the war's legacy. It is an entertaining, informative and provocative study.
- Author: Donald R. Hickey
- Paperback: 464 pages
- Dimensions: 15.2 x 2.3 x 22.7 cm
- Publisher: University of Toronto Press (October 25, 2019)