Throughout the winter and spring of 1812, the terms “impressment” and “free trade” were being touted in the halls of Congress as the U.S. government began to think seriously about war. The government’s actions during this time have for years raised questions. During this time, every attempt to improve and enlarge the U.S. Navy was defeated in Congress. While the seizing of British Canada and Spanish Florida were never discussed, the Army was put on a war footing.

Later, 60-year-old William Hall, a veteran of the American Revolution wrote, “Being at Washington in February 1812, and…