What was the main cause of the War of 1812?

The main cause of the War of 1812 was rooted in trade restrictions and the impressment of American sailors by the British Navy. In the early 19th century, the United States found itself caught in the conflict between Great Britain and France. Britain imposed trade restrictions aimed at undermining French commerce, which severely impacted American trade and angered American merchants. In addition to these trade restrictions, the British practiced impressment, forcibly recruiting American sailors into the Royal Navy. This violation of American sovereignty heightened tensions and spurred the U.S. government to action, leading many to view war as a necessary response to defend national honor and commercial rights.

While territorial expansion into Canada, disputes over taxation, and conflicts with Native American tribes were relevant issues of the time, they were secondary to the urgent economic pressures and violations of maritime rights that prompted the United States to declare war. The core justification presented by proponents of the war centered on the need to protect American trade and assert independence from British influence, making trade restrictions and impressment the primary catalysts for the War of 1812.