Major Figures of the War of 1812

During any war, it's important for students to have a clear understanding of the major figures involved and what their role is. Using a traditional storyboard and the character map backgrounds, students can create a chart describing the major figures of the War of 1812, their position, actions, and legacy after the war. Students will be able to understand each side of the war, including the U.S., Great Britain, and the Native Americans and how their actions contributed to the outcome of the war itself.

Teachers can pre-determine specific figures, or allow students to choose who they believe to be important. However, students should include at least one figure from each side of the war to have a better understanding of the different perspectives involved.

Recommended Notable Figures in the War of 1812

• James Madison
• William Henry Harrison
• John C. Calhoun
• Tecumseh
• Isaac Brock
• Andrew Jackson

Extended Activity

Have students create a spider map or poster on one specific figure. Use this as an extended, mastery activity so students can go further in depth as to who the figure was, their role, and why they are significant in relation to the War of 1812 and American history.

Student Instructions

Create a character map for the major historical figures.

1. Identify the major historical figures in The War of 1812 and type their names into the different title boxes.
2. Choose a character to represent each of the historical figures.
• Select colors and a pose appropriate to person.
3. Choose a scene or background that makes sense.
4. Fill in the text boxes for Who, Significance, Interesting Fact #1, and Interesting Fact #2.