From the Publisher
“This is the most judicious general overview of the War of 1812 with which I am familiar. J. C. A. Stagg long ago established himself as a leading authority on President James Madison and his administration’s handling of this too-often-neglected conflict. It is a tribute to Stagg – and a boon to readers – that he has been able to condense his immense expertise into such a readable and insightful book.” – Andrew Cayton, Miami University
“Few scholars know the War of 1812 better than J. C. A. Stagg. Based on a lifetime of scholarship and an intimate knowledge of the papers of James Madison, Stagg captures the essence of the diplomatic, political, and military conflicts of the war in a masterful, cogent, concise, and readable book. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the War of 1812!” – Paul A. Gilje, University of Oklahoma
“A well-researched but masterfully succinct and complete account, this is destined to become the definitive short history of the United States at war in 1812–1815.” – Donald E. Graves, author of Field of Glory: The Battle of Crysler’s Farm, 1813 and Where Right and Glory Lead: The Battle of Lundy’s Lane, 1814
“John Stagg’s new book on the War of 1812 is a thoughtful and illuminating treatment of America’s second war with Great Britain. As the longtime editor of the Madison papers, Stagg brings a special understanding of our fourth president to this project, and his treatment of the memory and legacy of the conflict is especially insightful. Experts and novices alike will find plenty to think about in this ‘essential’ history.” – Donald R. Hickey, author of The War of 1812: A Forgotten Conflict and Don’t Give Up the Ship! Myths of the War of 1812
“One of the most authoritative and balanced accounts of the War of 1812 ever written.” – Gordon S. Wood, Professor of History Emeritus, Brown University
"...this splendid little book is an outstanding introduction to the historian’s craft, the major historiographical issues related to the War of 1812, and a narrative overview, with serious analysis, of the most significant events of the war, its causes, course and conclusion." -Robert Swan, The Washington Independent Review of Books
"Stagg's slim volume offers readers a surefooted guide through the tickets of American political intrigue and international affairs...." -Nelson Lankford, The Weekly Standard
"...an excellent, focused introductory text to the background, course, and results of the War." -Frederick C. Leiner, The Northern Mariner
