Calling all history buffs!

The New Jersey State Library will be hosting a virtual author talk on New Jersey’s role in the War of 1812 on November 2nd, 2022. The talk will be hosted on Zoom, so interested participants can register here: Registration – NJ & the War of 1812 

As one of the key locations both prior to and through the conclusion of the War of 1812, New Jersey played a significant role in this pivotal point in American history. Now, Harvey Strum, professor of History and Political Science at Russell Sage College, is here to explain the political impact the war had on NJ, as well as what the long-term repercussions would be for the progress of our state.

Professor Strum was the Spector Fellow in the Humanities at Russell Sage College from 2020-2022. According to his bio, he has written many articles and encyclopedia entries on topics including the Embargo of 1808, War of 1812, Famine relief from New Jersey to Ireland during the Great Hunger in 1847 and Little Famine of 1880, Irish immigration to New Jersey and anti-Catholic anti-Irish nativism in New Jersey.

The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States and Great Britain that erupted over tensions spawning from the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. Americans were caught in the crossfires as French and British forces both attempted to cease trade between the United States and the respective countries. As tensions grew, Congress began to suggest the notion of war.

The catalyst for this fighting was largely due in part to continuous violations of maritime law by the British. Prior to 1812, the British were known to frequently seize American seamen on merchant vessels and force them to enroll in the British Navy. British warships would also hover off the coast of the US, especially in the New York Harbor and Sandy Hook, NJ areas, in an attempt to further antagonize aggression.

The War of 1812 officially started on June 18th, 1812, after President Madison officially signed a declaration of war against Britain. The conflict would continue until December 24, 1814, when successful peace talks ultimate led to the signing of the Treaty of Ghent, signaling the end of the war. Although this was a hard-fought battle, the war would ultimately serve to

The talk will be held virtually on November 2nd, 2022, from 12-1pm. If you have any questions prior to the event, please contact the New Jersey State Library at (609) 278-2640 or email cwarrick@njstatelib.org.

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