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When Britain Burned the White House: The 1814 Invasion of Washington
By Peter Snow
0 - Default Title
Description
9/11 was not the first time the heartland of the United States was struck a devastating blow by outsiders. Two centuries earlier Britain - now America's close friend then its bitterest enemy - set Washington ablaze before turning its sights to Baltimore.
In his compelling narrative style Peter Snow recounts the fast-changing fortunes of both sides of this extraordinary confrontation the outcome of which inspired the writing of the 'Star-Spangled Banner' America's national anthem. Using a wealth of material including eyewitness accounts he also describes the colourful personalities on both sides of these spectacular events: Britain's fiery Admiral Cockburn the cautious but immensely popular army commander Robert Ross and sharp-eyed diarists James Scott and George Gleig. On the American side: beleaguered President James Madison whose young nation is fighting the world's foremost military power his wife Dolley a model of courage and determination military heroes such as Joshua Barney and Sam Smith and flawed incompetents like Army Chief William Winder and War Secretary John Armstrong.
When Britain Burned the White House highlights this unparalleled moment in American history its far-reaching consequences for both sides and Britain's and America's decision never again to fight each other.
Product details
- Edition:
- 1
- Number of Pages:
- 320
- Release Date:
- 2013-09-12
- Publication Date:
- 2013-09-12
- Publisher:
- John Murray Publishers Ltd
- Languages:
- Published: English, Original: English
- ISBN10:
- 1848546114
- Weight:
- 590 g
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