The War of 1812 Magazine
Issue 12: November 2009
Editorial
By John
R. Grodzinski
Welcome to the latest issue of the War of 1812
Magazine! In this issue, we offer articles on a diverse series of subjects,
including artwork, naval affairs and artillery. There are also reviews
of two new interesting titles.
The War of 1812 community suffered a tragic loss recently, with the
passing of Robert Malcomson, noted naval historian and author of two
land battle studies on the War of 1812. He passed
away in July 2009. Bob has left us with an important
legacy that will be used by historians and enthusiasts for many years
to come. Donald E. Graves has kindly authored a memorial to Bob that
appears in this issue.
Two hundred years ago, as 1809 was coming to end, the Fifth Coalition
against France lay in ruins and the general military situation remained
relatively quiet for three more years, until Napoleon’s invasion
of Russia in 1812. That epic campaign would spark a new coalition,
the sixth that would culminate in the abdication of Bonaparte during
1814; meanwhile, Britain was increasing its committed in the Iberian
Peninsula and sending expeditions elsewhere, including Walcheren and
to take the final French held islands in the West Indies. The latter
theatre, witnessed a 28 day campaign on Martinique, where one of the
British field divisions were led by Lieutenant General Sir George Prevost,
the lieutenant governor of Nova Scotia and future Captain General and
Governor in Chief of British North America. During 1809, the United
States was enjoying a relative peace, after a series of internal rebellions,
frontier wars and overseas conflicts tested her army and navy.
Little did anyone know that this momentary hush in would explode into
global conflict and find the United States declaring war against Britain,
while that power was focussed on Europe. As we consider events of two
centuries ago, it is hoped that historians will choose to re-examine
them and add to our understanding of the War of 1812.
Enjoy this issue of the War of 1812 Magazine! |
