England, it is true, withdrew her obnoxious Orders in Council.

It was, however, too late.

Before intelligence of this repeal reached the shores of the United States, war was declared by Congress, on the 18th of June, 1812.
It was a popular war.

Although strenuously opposed by portions of the Eastern States, as destructive to their commerce, yet with the mass of the people throughout the Union, it was deemed justifiable and indispensible.
A long series of insults and injuries on the part of Great Britain--the seizure and confiscation of our ships and cargoes; the impressing of our seamen, under circumstances of the most irritating description; and the adoption of numerous measures to the injury of our interests--had fully prepared the public mind in the United States, with the exception of a small minority, to enter upon this war with zeal and enthusiasm.
With occasional reverses, general success attended our arms in every direction.

On land and on sea, the American eagle led to victory.