Pointless Bloodshed? The Battle of New Orleans 1815

[@davidsauls9542]

Andrew Jackson gathered many men from my Dad's family's farms (at Saulsbury Tennessee). As a payment, we got 4800 acres of forest land in Mississippi. After all these years, we still have it.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Fascinating. Thanks for sharing.

[@philhawley1219]

@@TheHistoryChap Some people complain about the landed gentry in Britain inheriting land granted to their ancestors for exactly the same reason.

[@DJJonEzzz]

@@philhawley1219they dont have hereditary titles. Citzens owning private property they earned is all i see here. apples to oranges

[@davidsauls9542]

@@TheHistoryChap The bulk of the family moved to Mississippi, drawn by the land grant. They built an enterprise 10 times that size. It has mostly faded, but it funded my Medical School, and many other's education ! The past moves Forward !

[@davidsauls9542]

@@philhawley1219 Thank You! We had the old land Grant of 4800 acres and it was built up to ten times that size. The old men took the grant and built upon it. Their family had risked it all. They won. They built this nation. My generation has given back.. I went to the finest medical center and have spent over 30 years devoted to mental retardation. The Kennedys have not given back as much as my family has. Landed gentry in the south, we are very quiet, but helpful.

[@richardglady3009]

Thank you for telling this story. I’m sorry to say (as a lifelong military historian), modern America students are unlikely to even know about the battle. I thought you were extraordinarily objective, even while giving the “British” perspective. Thanks for this wonderful and extremely informative video.

[@VonOzbourne]

That's interesting. Maybe it's just being of a slightly older generation, but in my experience, the American take on this battle was to treat it like the decisive battle of the entire war and to have ignored the whole "burning down the White House" part. Granted the Canadian take used to also be that "we" did that, while glossing over that grey area of not technically being a country yet. Just kind of funny how each side likes to put their own spin on what was important to know.

[@richardglady3009]

@ I suspect we are of the same generation. I graduated from college in 1985 then went on to serve in the Navy. If there is one guaranteed area of ignorance, it is the Canadian theater of the War of 1812.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your feedback, glad you enjoyed my video.

[@robertsolomielke5134]

@@VonOzbourne Yes true, and we forget the great native alliance led by the great young chief Tecumseh. Best scouts all war, and terror bluff threating force. The native alliance played a key role in several wins. Most of white America were terrified of them. "Our native allies might run amok, with scalping, burning, or worse , beyond our control,....so surrendering the fort will only spare lives :D

[@VonOzbourne]

@@richardglady3009 You seem to have about a decade on me, but if it's one thing I know about growing up in that era, it's the national inferiority complex and indignation of feeling like the nerdy kid crushing on the popular girl that doesn't even know he exists. ​ @robertsolomielke5134 Ah yes. I did omit that part, but in fairness I did say "used to". Sadly, I still encounter plenty of people who continue to gloss over that part.

[@davidmajer3652]

You are starting off the New Year with some excellent content.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks. Plenty more coming your way.

[@SER540x]

Why not? Today is the anniversary of the battle.

[@hollin220]

As an American we always hear of this being a nice little victory at the end of a nice little war. The details you provide shows the horror of this battle. Hats off to the bravery of the Brits for making such heroic advances. Cheers 🍻

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video, and your comment.

[@markayres8014]

Great video. As a citizen of Louisiana, I appreciate your balanced and colorful telling of this story. Thanks as always for your entertaining videos about historical events.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Another little point is that the Free Men of Color participated in Jackson's victory parade in New Orleans much to the white citizens horro. He quietly moved them out of Louisiana after that.

[@erikM64]

Once again, an excellent episode ! As a North European, I never had any insight in the Battle of New Orleans, save for the Johnny Horton song (as sung by John R Cash)

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

[@thomasimburgio272]

The photo make the battlefield look larger than it is. When I was there years ago I marveled how small and narrow the battlefield is, one can only imagine how the concentrated American fire poured into the pack ranks of the British infantry caused such high casualties.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your comment.

[@allanburt5250]

Thanks Chris another cracking video. It's a fascinating period. I'm always interested in hearing where all theses characters link through history... cheers

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video, thanks for watching.

[@jaredkrol3739]

So handily pushing back the British in New Orleans definitely contributed to the American feeling that they had come out ahead in the war, even though it was really a strategic draw.

[@donnacorrell3527]

It was NOT a "strategic draw"; if the British had taken New Orleans, only naive fool or a child (or a Democrat, but I repeat myself) would suppose the British simply give it back and sail away.

[@jaredkrol3739]

@ I meant the war overall

[@davidw1634]

@@donnacorrell3527 well look at the aims of the war the Americans wanted to seize Canada, failed miserably then got pillaged until the end of the war. America failed in their aims so I’d say it’s an American defeat rather than draw

[@ColinWilkinson-p2y]

We won the Treaty though.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@briandubois-gilbert8182]

There was a 1958 Hollywood film-The Buccaneer-starring Charlton Heston as Gen. Andrew Jackson, and Yul Brynner as the pirate Jean Lafitte that depicted the Battle of New Orleans. The movie featured the gallant assault led by the 93rd (Sutherland Highlanders) Regiment of Foot that was repulsed with heavy casualties by the Americans. There’s a film clip of this on KZbin.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@Trebor74]

Is that the same captain Lafitte that ran slaves with Jim Bowie?

[@andrewfischer8564]

1938 version too

[@billschnelzer9943]

I really liked that movie!

[@JamesQuirk-x1r]

There were two movies 🎥 of Buccaneer that were filmed by famous director Cecil De Mille that was 1930s one , DeMille had son in law actor Anthony Quinn to direct the movie 🎦 and Charlton Heston and Yu Byrner both starred in DeMille famous movie The Ten Commander's.

[@robertsolomielke5134]

TY Chris , nice to see another great truth of history , amid so much mythology about the Battle of New Orleans. 177,000 casualties at Waterloo ! I know now why British military history nearly forgets this battle-TY.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching & thanks for the feedback.

[@oc2phish07]

Happy New Year, Chris

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks, and to you.

[@PatriciaHarrison-mr2xj]

Thank you for telling this story, Chris. My 4x great grandfather was in the 4th Regiment of Foot and fought in the Peninsula Wars before they were sent to New Orleans. From what I can remember from reading somewhere, they arrived on 15th/16th January and he was injured on 16th, resulting in having both legs amputated by a British Surgeon who was a POW himself, but was allowed to tend some of the other POWs. I read a report that the surgeon, named Wadell I think, performed 26 leg amputations and 23 of those men survived. He must have been a very skilled doctor. My ancestor was one of the survivors and lived for another 39 yrs.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks or watching my video & for your really interesting and informative feedback.

[@danlimm145]

Love your content Chris, always a great watch 👍🏻

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you kindly.

[@declanoleary1]

As ever entertainingly and enjoyably presented.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video.

[@Fred-px5xu]

Wonderful video lecture on The Battle New Orleans Sir. Bravo! I eagerly await your next video lecture. Oh.. belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 🥳🎉

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & Happy New Year to you.

[@barrywebber100]

Thanks for a very entertaining and interesting piece of history with which I was unfamiliar. Your story telling skills are captivating and educational!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind comment, thanks.

[@stevebowman421]

The difference between shooting straight and just pointing and volley fire, a lesson learnt by the Brits, finally, in the Boer war.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your comment.

[@kaoskronostyche9939]

Thank you. The only thing I knew about this battle was a popular song. Great story. Happy New Year.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & Happy New Year to you.

[@Ksmskns]

OH IN 1814 WE TOOK A LITTLE TRIP 🗣️ 🔥

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for commenting.

[@Ksmskns]

@TheHistoryChap i love you and Europe

[@ropeburnsrussell]

I can still remember every word of that song. That singer also sang' sink the Bismark'

[@scrat4379]

@@ropeburnsrussell Johnny Horton was his name.

[@ropeburnsrussell]

That's right, I had forgotten

[@realwealthproperties5671]

Very interesting and educational video! I grew up just outside of New Orleans and still learned a lot from you today. You just got a new subscriber so please keep up the good work!

[@neilhayz1555]

I didn’t realise Harry Smith was involved here also! I recall that when he was an officer in the 95th at Badajoz he protected a young Spanish lady whom he later married. Her lady like bearing and gentility so impressed the town where he was Governor that they named Ladysmith after her. What is my interest in this? Well obviously the story of Ladysmith in South Africa doesn’t end there. I lived in a town called Ashton-under-Lyne which was originally the depot of the Manchester Regiment. Due to their bravery during the siege of Ladysmith the depot was named “Ladysmith Barracks”. The entrance arch still stands today, although the barracks is now a housing estate. The local pub opposite the barracks was named “Heroes of Waterloo” in honour of the Regiment. One day I must research their role at Waterloo. My Mams family historically served in the regiment.

[@akacadian3714]

OUTSTANDING Video. The US 7th Infantry Regiment is known as "The Cotton Bailers" to this day because of that battle. Its is one of the oldest and longest serving regiments in American History. You take on the battle and Jackson are excellent. It made Andrew Jackson and Jackson is the first common man and westerner to become President.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your informative feedback.

[@christopherseivard8925]

Well, that is the afternoon that I will be watching!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@ak9989]

My ancestors on my dad's side were from Louisiana when it was Spanish in the 1770s. I've been to just about every 1812 battlefield from Canada to New Orleans 😂😂 with my family in tow😮

[@malcomflibbleghast8140]

did you bribe them with burgers? :P

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your interesting family story.

[@valiciprian2061]

Happy New Year😊

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & Happy New Year to you.

[@matthewarcher3024]

Love your videos man

[@OscarGomez-hx8zc]

Incredible video Chris, thank you 🙏! I still can not understand despite the entrenched positions of the Americans, that such a professional army could not find a better tactic to preserve life and win the battle…

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed my video.

[@johnmanale3105]

I live close to the Chalmette battle field we used to take yearly class trips their when I was in school in the late 70's and early 80's. I'm over a decade over due for return trip.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your comment.

[@haalstaag]

Haha, touché. Thanks Chris, great video as always. What about the withdrawal? How did that go?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Withdrawal, from the accounts I have read, was orderly and certainly not the mad rush that some US commentators claim.

[@Micktyb]

I have been to the battlefield 👍 very interesting thanks 👏

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video, thanks for watching.

[@s.p.ltd.3886]

I noticed several comments on Johnny Hortons version of the "Battle of New Orleans", as great as it is, Jimmy Driftwoods version (the original version I believe) contains additional verses not included in the Johnny Horton version. Well worth a listen in my opinion.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your comment.

[@americansupremacist5118]

The War of 1812 did not end until March 1815 when the both sides had ratified the Treaty of Ghent this is specifically mentioned in the treaty.

[@h.w.barlow6693]

They like to leave that fact out.

[@davidwoods7720]

Thanks Chris

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video

[@maxreed2343]

Happy New Year, our British military history giving KZbinr superstar Chris old bean, and BOY was this certainly a great first 2025 edition to give of ya's (I'd better damn well FINALLY watch your videos from two, now really three, years ago on IT, the US-British War of 1812-15 thanks to this, haha), and as someone else has already you should TOTALLY cover, for this year's new material to come over 2025, the battles of the French and Indian War in which future American Revolutionary War figure and first future POTUS George Washington himself was involved in, AND the Revolutionary War, oh yeah, AND the Maori Wars in New Zealand of us Brits vs the Maori which I know absolutely NOTHING, ZERO, ZILCH, about, and would LOVE for YOU to give us exactly that. Anyway, speaking of this topic from tonight, yeah, the Battle of New Orleans certainly was a pointless battle in the end considering it was fought after the peace treaty declaring an end to the 1812-15 conflict was signed and ratified, at least in London at first (I should say though that the fact that Andrew Jackson was a prominent figure here makes me a little disgusted admittedly, considering that HE was the US President who brought about all sorts of hell and misery down on the southern Native American tribes, including the Cherokee who Sam Houston, another well prominent figure of the 1812-15 War, had good history with in his younger years, the Trail of Tears campaign aka the forced displacement of approximately 60,000 people of the Cherokee, Muscogee, Seminole, Chickasaw, and Choctaw nations AND their black slaves being THE biggest controversial thing against Andrew Jackson for me and of course for ongoing generations of the Native peoples of America), until word FINALLY reached America itself after the battle was over and done with... 2000 British soldiers, killed, wounded and missing/captured, for the loss of just 13 Americans dead... What a waste of a battle, the final time also we and America would fight each other officially, pointless indeed

[@bandit6272]

Reading your comment, I would've thought the topic of the video was whinging about Andrew Jackson, not the battle of New Orleans.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your support. Thanks also for your interesting feedback.

[@QALibrary]

He is back! Happy New Year Just to let you know Chris they have started to remove all the war memorials on the seafront. This is part of the Portsmouth seawall rebuild programme. Some are in very bad shape and disrepair but apparently, they all going to be cleaned and rebuilt before being placed back on better foundations where they are now

[@TheHistoryChap]

That's an interesting update. Thanks for sharing.

[@mickofmorden]

I knew about the story of the battle and about Jackson's role in it. It good however to learn about the other people involved and about the units on the US side. As always very enjoyable video if somewhat sad that so many had to die for nothing.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video, thanks for watching.

[@karlking4980]

Chris, Excellent video. I have read quite a few books and articles on the Battle of New Orleans. If I recall correctly, most if not all stated that the 93rd Highlanders actually stood still under fire for some period of time. Do you know if that is true and if so, why and for how long that happened? Please keep the interesting videos coming! Karl

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video. Thanks for watching.

[@occhamite]

Well done, as expected! I do have a suggestion: When rivers are involved in the narrative, rather than using compass points to denote the banks, might it be best to use the convention adopted by historians and military men, of labeling the riverbanks from the the perspective of an observer at the center of the river, facing downstream? That way, the '"left bank" is ALWAYS the left bank, as is the right, whereas the "west bank" as you denote in the video, owing the the meandering of the river, is at various times a north, south east or west bank. This can make following a story line quite difficult. Anyway, great stuff, well done as always!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for that useful feedback.

[@Sammyandbobsdad]

American here, with family going back to the Mayflower so I have skin in the game historically, and say without the shadow of a doubt that the Battle of New Orleans was an entirely useless battle. Americans like to pretend that it takes a draw and makes it a win, but sorry fellow Yanks, we started a war for reasons, fought it, had our capitol burned down, and ended a wR gaining none of the reasons for which we started it. Also, the strongest navy in the world had just finished a 20 year on/off (mostly on) conflict with what was perceived of as the greatest military in the world with a clear win, freeing ups fleet one hundred? Two hundred? times bigger and an army that had not lost a single battle against Napoleon. Yes, New Orleans was a victory, but if the war had gone on for another year, we would be a province of Canada now.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your interesting feedback.

[@Duke-i3u]

any battle fought because news of peace was too late arriving is a terrible tragedy, for both sides.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@bradley8575]

History chap you should cover The battles of the French and Indian War (George Washington) and the American Revolutionary War.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Oooh, never fear, they are on my list. Watch this space!

[@michaelsnyder3871]

What is also often not addressed is Jackson's night attack on the British camp on 23 December, which this video covered quickly. Jackson's forces included his Regulars, the Haitians, the "Free Men of Color", the New Orleans French and the Tennessee Volunteers. The raid which lasted three hours, forced the British commander, Keane, to pause in his approach on New Orleans, giving time for additional work on the "Line". What is especially interesting is there are history books, one written by Philip Katcher, another by James, claim the Americans wouldn't stand against British bayonets. Yet that is exactly what Jackson's men did during the attack, three hours of small unit action in night and fog that saw the bayonet used by both sides.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your informative Feedback.

[@donaldmulrooney942]

Have you done one yet on Laural Secord and the Battle of Beaver Dam a bloodless Canadian victory.?

[@billballbuster7186]

A classic example of being defeated by the terrain.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for commenting.

[@kierans1159]

There were excuses for this pointless battle given the speed of communication, the last deaths on 11 November 1918 were inexcusable.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@malcomflibbleghast8140]

as famously mentioned by saphire and steel :)

[@Tal-q3r]

not a Jimmy Horton music vid? 🥺 thx again, Chris

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@ColinWilkinson-p2y]

Yes it was, and Wellington really missed those guys at Waterloo.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@RogerWKnight]

In New Orleans, next to what is now called Jackson Park, one of the oldest urban parks in the US, the nuns set up a field hospital in anticipation of the battle. They cheered the news of the victory and that New Orleans had been saved and that Louisiana will remain the 20th State of the United States, but then came the casualties. Hundreds from both sides were treated that day in New Orleans.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your interesting & informative feedback.

[@bronxer78]

We are better cousins than adversaries! 🇺🇸🇬🇧❤

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video and for your comment.

[@user-tp1bi6of3v]

Enjoyed your presentation. The US Navy squadron of small ships on Lake Borgne delayed the British forces just long enough to prepare for the attack. Commodore Patterson correctly predicted the Britsh would attack New Orleans. The British did try to entice the Lafitte brothers to join them with an offer of money, a captaincy in the Royal Navy, a pardon for preying on British ships. There was a USNavy ship in the river, USS Caroline and a 6 gun gunboat No. 65. It's a good thing the British didn't have steam driven vessels that David Farragut had in 1862, otherwise it might have been a different outcome. Anyway good video!!!

[@user-tp1bi6of3v]

Need to mention that Jackson asked that the Ursilne sisters to pray for his forces before and during the battle. Today there is a mass to commemorate the victory on January 8th every year.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your interesting feedback.

[@nicofolkersma2535]

Great video. How about a story of an American turncoat, general Benedict Arnold ? He did wear the British uniform after all.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks fr watching my video.

[@JamesQuirk-x1r]

Hinds county Mississippi is named after Colonel Hinds who commanded the Mississippians during the battle and Jackson Mississippi the state capital of Mississippi is named in honor of Jackson , Jackson was admired hero in Mississippi.

[@Mrchungus11C-OIR]

The guard unit in McCommb has a battle streamer from this battle.

[@ccahill2322]

The man who led the assault on Washington, Major General Robert Ross. educated at Trinity College Dublin and shot by a sniper at Baltimore was the youngest "general" in the British Army at that time. Jackson's family ,on both sides, came from Carrickfergus, Ireland. The man, who in Canada, had an American Army surrender to him was Captain James Fitzgibbon, came from Glin, County Limerick, Ireland. He had joined the local Militia in Limerick as a private and later was governor of Ontario.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your informative feedback.

[@ccahill2322]

@@TheHistoryChap, Thank you. I appreciate what you are doing. I have had, since childhood ,a more than average curiosity about "history." I did not get to University until much later in life. I was not studying the subject but I saw, one day, on the back of a toilet door (written, no doubt, by a disgruntled genius whose identity will always remain a mystery) the following: "History ain't what it used to be!" Thank you again and good luck.

[@alexius23]

The victory at New Orleans recharged American morale. It made Andrew Jackson President of the US. It even gave the US the hugely popular song, “The Hunters of Kentucky”

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks fo watching my video

[@cardboardempire]

In 1812, we were just sitting around, Minding our own business, putting crops into the ground, We heard the soldiers coming, and we didn't like that sound, So we took a boat to Washington, And burnt it to the ground - Three Dead Trolls in a Baggie

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your comment.

[@williamluster9394]

I was lectured in history class that Packenham was sent home in a barrel of rum for preservation, but thirsty sailors drank the rum and his body decomposed. “Poor Packenham, he lost twice.”

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your interesting comment.

[@toekneekerching9543]

They drank it accidently not knowing the body was inside, they didnt do it on purpose. Its also not known if anyone actually drank it since the reports simply say that people said the rum smelled funny and only then did they realise the barrel had been wrongly labelled.

[@brianspendelow840]

Excellent video, detailing the courage of the British attackers that is often forgotten. While it was officially a draw I think it is worth mentioning that the War of 1812 did have its winners and losers. Canada won, as the American attempts to invade had all failed and their successful defense had unified the Canadians . The Native Americans lost. Tribes fought on both sides of the war, but were all badly treated by the Americans when it was over.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your interesting feedback.

[@jonmcgee6987]

When it comes to not liking the British. Jackson definitely beats out Adm Ernest J King. I hope every in Great Britain has a safe and good year. It's starting out a bit crazy on this side of the pond.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your comments. Happy New Year.

[@londonbudgetgardner5205]

Excellent video UN-IMAGINATIVE COMMANDER It is very dangerous to promote a commander based on family ties/ nobility. The British had the advantage of a navy with huge guns. There was no flank moves, no probing attacks. Commanders should be based on merit.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your feedback.

[@ak9989]

Forgot to mention history chap, my oldest was in the 7th infantry, "Cottonbalers" crest has cotton bales to remind them of New Orleans 😂

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your feedback.

[@adamcohen2632]

While the Baratrians were vital the success of the Americans with their artillery expertise, Lafitte himself conspicuously never set foot on the battlefield, although his brother served as a scout and messenger. Lafitte assisted with materiel, but made sure his hide was never on the line during the battle itself despite all the accolades from historians and even Jackson himself. I am sorry to say that the annual Battle of New Orleans reenactment has been cancelled for this year. I have attended several times and always was impressed with everyone's devotion to making it historically accurate. By the way, Line Jackson now runs through a Walmart. Despite all the factors working against the British including weather, terrain, logistics, poor intelligence, battlefield confusion and a healthy dose of hubris from commanding officers, the Brits fought bravely and with the action on the Westbank actually came closer to snatching victory from the jaws of defeat than you give the Brits credit for. There is also substantial doubt that had the British won the battle that they would honor the terms of treaty and likely would have retained any territory gained and perhaps even cut a deal with Spain to return the territory to them which legally had some merit as there was a firm belief that the transfer of Louisiana from Spain to Napoleon's France just prior to the Louisiana purchase was not validly done with Napoleon never delivering on the consideration promised Spain. If the Brits had prevailed in New Orleans all bets would have been off and its impossible to determine today what the final result would have been.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your feedback.

[@IndianaDel1]

John Lambert, is a direct ancestor of mine

[@TheHistoryChap]

Wow, thanks for sharing.

[@ropeburnsrussell]

Well, they run through the briars and they run through the brambles And they run through the bushes where a rabbit couldnt go They run so fast that the hounds couldnt catch'em Down the Mississippi to the gulf of Mexico

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@janlindtner305]

I remember from the film about the battle with Charlton Heston in the main role, that during the fog at the beginning of the battle, the position of the Rocket Corps was fortunately hit from the Jackson line detonated in explosions that disrupted the start of the attack. Can you confirm or deny this? As always exciting and educational lecture Chris👍👍👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Referring to the Charlton Heston film, I have not read of this happening. As it was a film some poetic licence may have been used, really not sure about this.

[@JosephPercente]

Listen to the battle of new Orleans by johny Horton. It's a catchy tune.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video. & your comment,

[@gsigs]

Jackson is under appreciated as one of the USA's greatest presidents. In that this battle added to his reputation, the battle wasn't pointless. At least, not for the Americans.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@beardedraven7285]

If the british had seized New Orleans they quite possibly would have given Louisiana back to Spain. I went to the battlefield as a kid several times with my family and once for a field trip. There is a paddleboat that takes you from the aquarium down to Chalmette. It is a great experience. Katrina did a number to the Jackson line though.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing. Want to visit American battlefields some time in the near future.

[@MrBobDobaline]

A great Johnny Horton song.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Not too bad.

[@henrycarter1372]

I am glad you mentioned the Battle of Waterloo. One of the problems Britain faced when Napoleon made his comeback was that so many of their best soldiers were in North America. When Wellington faced the French at Waterloo, he had to rely on Netherland and Belgian troops who were of dubious loyalty and quality. He did have many excellent units at hand but he could have used more. If he had a few more of those seasoned peninsular veterans, maybe it would not have been such a “close run thing”.

[@Solanis]

"...so many of their best soldiers were in North America..." Do you have a source for this?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your interesting feedback.

[@henrycarter1372]

I perhaps need to rephrase that. The battles were about six months apparent but it takes time to bring a unit back from an overseas deployment and get it combat ready. The 93rd did not get back to Ireland until May, less than a month before Waterloo. The 2nd battalion of the 44th was with Wellington but the 1st, the one that was at New Orleans was not brought back to full strength for about a year. Another veteran unit, the 43rd of foot also missed the battle. I think the 7th might been in both but I am not sure. Wellington could have used more seasoned troops in his army and these would have helped. He probably would have still needed the Prussians but his situation might have less dire.

[@SSHitMan]

The USA built Fort Proctor on the shores of Lake Borgne in response to this attack, purpose was to defend against a similar invasion in the future. But it was obsolete soon after completion due to rapidly changing military technology and was abandoned before the Civil War. But it still stands today and is pretty cool to visit but you can only get to it by boat now, I went there in my kayak.

[@jeremybeard272]

Some of the soldiers on returning from New Orleans were redirected straight to Belgium and fought at Waterloo, notably the 40th Regiment of Foot.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your interesting feedback.

[@alexius23]

The delay of learning about the Treaty of Ghent has a parallel. Before the US declared war in 1812 the British Parliament had revoked the infamous Orders in Council. If Congress had known about that might the War never happened?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Indeed. In fact I point this out in my video about the War of 1812.

[@alessiodecarolis]

Perhaps, but don't forget that Madison wanted an excuse to seize Canada, and add the fact that North Eastern indians were armed by the british and encouraged to raid US settlements, so probabilly, neverthless US chronical improvisation in armies, the war could've been declared anyway.

[@shawngilliland243]

As an American, my perspective is that it certainly was NOT pointless bloodshed. One of the reasons for the 'bad blood' between many Americans and the British was the willful British non-compliance with the Treaty of Paris (signed years before in early September of 1783), especially the British refusal to evacuate several forts in what was the old Northwest of the US, such as Ft Miami in Ohio. The British were also believed to be paying the Native Americans for the scalps of American settlers. Though many in the region of New England did not support war against Britain, the idea of war with Britain was much more widely supported in the South and West of the US. If the British had seized New Orleans, it was by no means unreasonable to expect that they would not withdraw from the city under the terms of any treaty, since they had been doing the very same thing since 1784 with other forts in the Northwest of the US. Therefore, no effort should have been spared to prevent the British from taking New Orleans. General Jackson was widely - and rightly! - regarded as a national hero after the lopsided victory at the Battle of New Orleans.

[@toekneekerching9543]

America lost pretty much every other engagement during the war and you had your capital city burned down and if the war had carried on you would have carried on losing. The US is like one of those annoying people on a video game who gets their butt handed to them over and over but then manages to get one lucky kill before quickly quitting the game to give themselves an illusion of victory... You probably wouldnt have done too well without the slaves digging your earth works either... Over all the battle and war in general was pointless because your aim was to invade Canada and you ended up defending yourselves from a counter invasion in New Orleans... and once again the French helped you out by getting in the way. The war was an epic fail for America, im amazed so many americans think they some how won... carry on taking your copium if it makes you feel better.

[@johnturnbullkailofer3887]

Another great clip but I do prefer stockings.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@Losantiville]

I disagree with “status quo restored” settlement of war of 1812. Since impressment of Americans ended.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@sloboat55]

The British forgot Breeds Hill and made the same mistake.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@Peoples_Republic_of_Devonshire]

We also forgot that it was the Royal Marines that took Breed's Hill when the British Army couldn't, which inspired the formation of the USMC. Should have deployed the Royal Marines in strength against New Orleans

[@UkrainianPaulie]

​@Peoples_RepubliRoyal Marines would have met the same fate. American marksmanship was the advantage.

[@malcolmyoung7866]

Jackson Line was the major advantage… Grape shot, cannon fire and then marksmanship..

[@davyaldy76]

There is a Pakenham Street in Fremantle Western Australia. I wonder if it was named after the General or someone local. That it would be named after the General is not without merit, there is a locality near Bunbury named Picton after the General that fell at Waterloo.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video. You are probably right about the names.

[@thomaskilpatrick8531]

Theres a plaque near Carrickfergus in Northern Ireland detailing his father mother and his family's emigration to America

[@DaveAinsworth-y8h]

There was only two governments building not burned by the British when they captured DC Washington, the Navy Yard and USMC Barracks at 8th and I. The Navy Yard was burned by a US Navy Captain and crew burned the stores, the marine barracks was not burned by the British respect but the US Navy and USMC as professional.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing that info David.

[@CTA12356]

They probably didn’t burn the barracks as they intended to use them nothing to do with respect

[@UkrainianPaulie]

​@@CTA12356True.

[@JamesQuirk-x1r]

It was total disaster for redcoats

[@mortenpoulsen1496]

John la fii llt looks like hugh jackman in a les miserable

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@WyomingTraveler]

A good video, I enjoyed it very much, Had the British won at New Orleans, I believe they would have demanded a renegotiation of the treaty, Yhe news treaty would have been less advantageous to the Americans. The British may have wanted to keep New Orleans.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video, thanks for watching.

[@toekneekerching9543]

Very unlikely since more important events were taking place in France. In case you missed the end of the video Napoleon came back before the treaty had even been ratified. All interest in the war in America was lost.

[@WyomingTraveler]

@ I disagree. Once the British occupied New Orleans, they would’ve stayed there. The British didn’t like giving up territory they conquered. it makes no difference since the British lost and there are no ifs in history.

[@toekneekerching9543]

@@WyomingTraveler well they didn't stay after they conquered Washington so why would they stay in New Orleans? And the British lost no ifs or buts??? are you deluded? the US started the war and tried to invade Canada, you were repelled and faced counter invasions that resulted in your capital burning down, how is that a win? typical dim yank comment, what do they actually teach you in history class? Do you even know New Orleans wasnt the final battle? check out fort Bowyer , it took place after new Orleans and it was yet another embarrassing loss for the US as an entire garrison surrendered the fort after just 1 single defender was shot... They left Mobile bay undefended and the way was clear for the full scale ground invasion of New Orleans , if news of the treaty hadn't arrived New Orleans would have been burnt just the same as Washington.

[@peterallen4605]

You missed one important factor. The US had ships on the river anchored and firing broadsides into the flanks of the British ranks. The 93rd suffered significant casualties before they were ordered to march obliquely across the battlefield away from the naval guns, but exposing themselves to an extended period of fire from the US main line. Truly awful ground for the Brits to attack across. The British completely gave up the advantage of the attacker of choosing the ground for the assault. They had freedom of movement to cross the river and assault up the west bank en masse, or even board their ships and come in from Lake Pontchartrain.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your informative feedback. Thank you.

[@neilhayz1555]

Excellent comment, my compliments Sir! Seriously, thanks.

[@waynesbeenthere9681]

Excellent content. I am not sure if this battle could be called pointless. If the British would have won decisively (which they should have) and with now no U.S standing armies in the nation's southern region below the Ohio river, the British army would have had nothing in its way, now able to take Fort Bowyer in Mobile Bay, as well as possibly occupy Natchez up the Mississippi River. This would have put them easily in position to grant all of this back to Spain while complying with the Ghent treaty. (Or else Britain could have chosen to ignore portions of the Ghent treaty, similar to how they ignored 1783 Treaty of Paris portions that couldn't be enforced (not withdrawing from the western forts as the Treaty dictated, etc). Also, the extremely low casualties on the U.S side while decisively defeating a veteran/well trained British army raised Jackson to mythical hero status- which provided a pro-west populist movement an leader that eventually would forge a strong populist element in U.S. politics. Lastly, it secured the U.S. from a temptation of further British overt interference in coming years. This could have impacted the future of Texas as well as the outcome of the U.S. Civil War at the very least.

[@TheHistoryChap]

You raise a really interesting set of alernative histories. Thanks.

[@waynesbeenthere9681]

@@TheHistoryChap Indeed, too many rabbit trails. I really enjoy your channel! Thank you for your work and research.

[@toekneekerching9543]

Sounds like the American education system trying to over emphasise the importance to this battle to give themselves extra glory, realistically that would never have happened since they had no serious interest in a long drawn out campaign across the Atlantic when there were easy pickings in other areas of the world. more importantly with the 2nd rise of Napoleon it was impossible since every available man was needed to fight in Europe and Britain was almost bankrupt from the first round with Napoleon.

[@djpass-mi4bi]

Americans aren't taught that at the same time the British successfully took Mobile and Brunswick, Georgia.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your feedback.

[@ChaohsiangChen]

It's not pointless. New Orleans is strategically important for controlling the Mississippi River. The prize for the Mississippi River and the access to the vast American West is too large that I doubt any signed paper would even matter.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@ronmaximilian6953]

A glorious and, but pointless battle, which ended major combat in a pointless war.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your comment.

[@warhawk4494]

Pointless Battle? Not at the time. Plus it lead to a pretty killer song from the 1950s.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your comment.

[@kingjoe3rd]

Andrew Jackson was a legend. He is often mischaracterized and was not the devil that his modern detractors try to make him out to be.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your feedback.

[@richardbradley2802]

Packenham was a good Divisional commander, but IMO, a poor general, who just repeated the poor tactics used in the early Revolutionary war.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I tend to agree, although the same tactic had won at Badajoz and of course General Gough used them (with high casualties but ultimate success) in the Sikh Wars

[@annehersey9895]

We Yanks have a great song about the Battle of New Orleans by Johnny Horton! ‘ In 1814 we took a little trip, Along with Col. Jackson down the mighty Mississipp! We took a little bacon and we took a little beans, and we fought the mighty British in the town of New Orleans’! KZbin has it so I hope you give it a listen because it’s a rip roarin fun song! In fact, Chris, it’s so fun you just might end up rooting for the US! 😀😀😀

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & I have heard the song, thanks.

[@billstidams6658]

I had two ancestors that was part of the Kentucky militia. When muster was called they ran as hard as they could to answer, afraid they should miss the fighting lol. If the British had wasted any time in their attacks, instead of facing 4,000 they would have been facing 10,000 within a week..The whole south was dropping the their plows and grabbing their rifles , heading for New Orleans..

[@harryshriver6223]

Chris, a very well done analysis of the battle, one thing about us Americans is that we can sure can shoot, especially on the frontier where it is necessary for survival if you want to eat! There is a song about the battle, I sang it as a kid. Kudos to you for being gracious, muy bien, amigo 👏

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & thanks for your comments.

[@malcomflibbleghast8140]

bad defeats are often down to bad planning. clearly the assault plan was a muddle.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my videol

[@jamesbarton1969]

Not at all pointless. Stopping the ships of other nations and taking things off them were acts of war or a belief that the other nation was not to be taken seriously. The United States declared war because the British were using the American merchant fleet as a source of replacement sailors to keep British ships manned in order to fight the French, very much a nation to be taken seriously. After the Battle of New Orleans, the United States were (prior to 1865 the United States was a plural term) seen as a real nation by the British. Admittedly much of the respect came from the myth of the Kentucky Long Rifle but it was respect none the less.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one.

[@DJJonEzzz]

all it did was confirm the treaty and cemented the idea in American minds that they could whip the redcoats.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@Desert-Father]

Brits wouldn't leave and Andrew Jackson was done asking nicely.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@OnePlusOneEqualsOnePlusOne]

It's called Battle of Pointless Bloodshed where everyone kill each other pointlessly.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@avnrulz]

Only Richard Sharpe was missing!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video