The Invasion of Canada

On June 18, 1812, the United States declared war on Great Britain – the most powerful nation in the world. At the time Britain was in the midst of a long and perilous struggle with Napoleon's France. US President Thomas Jefferson thought that taking Britain’s Canadian colonies would be "a mere matter of marching." He was wrong.

American forces launched multiple attacks across the northern border. In The Invasion of Canada, Ron Dale traces the course of the gruelling two-year conflict. He bringsnging to life people and engagements that have become legendary in Canada: General Brock's stand at Queenston Heights holding back an invading force, British ally Tecumseh's death at Moraviantown, Laura Secord's epic trek through the woods to warn of an American attack and more.

With a new Introduction and conclusion, this timely second edition is a reminder of Canada’s long and complicated relationship with the United States. Ron Dale recounts how the War of 1812 was critical in enabling the British colonies north of the United States to forge a common identity. It set them on a path to becoming an independent and sovereign country.

Richly illustrated with colour photography of paintings and contemporary photos, this edition is updated with photos from key historical sites.