Timeline: Major Events of the War of 1812

Creating a visual timeline is a great way for students to be able to see the sequence of events during a period in history. With the War of 1812, students can better understand the major events or battles that occurred and how they were connected. Using a timeline layout, students will outline and describe the major events that occurred during the War of 1812.

Teachers may pre-select which events they want their students to include on the timeline, or allow students to choose which events they'd like to analyze. Students will be able to construct and explain the series of events that defined the War of 1812. In addition, students should try to incorporate causes, battles, and primary sources into their timelines.

For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options, and update the instructions accordingly.

Suggested Major Events of the War of 1812

• June 18, 1812 - War is Declared
• October 1, 1812 - Battle of Detroit
• January 18, 1813 - Battle of Frenchtown
• October 1, 1813 - Tecumseh Killed
• August 25, 1814 - Washington Burns
• December 24 - January 8, 1815 - Battle of New Orleans

Extended Activity

Have students create a post- or pre-War of 1812 timeline to better understand the events surrounding the war. Students may concentrate on what major events led to the war, or events that were triggered by the war. This will allow students to better understand both the causes and effects of the War of 1812.

Student Instructions

Create a timeline detailing the events of the War of 1812.

1. Click "Start Assignment".
2. Identify important battles and events and type them into the titles of each cell.
3. Describe the battles and events in the description box.
4. Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
5. Save and exit when you're done.