FROM THE DUST JACKET:

Although frequently overlooked between the American Revolution and the Civil War, the War of 1812 tested a rising generation of American leaders; unified the United States with a renewed sense of national purpose; and set the stage for westward expansion.

During the course of the war, USS Constitution, "Old Ironsides," proved the mettle of the fledgling American navy; Oliver Hazard Perry hoisted a flag boasting, "Don't Give Up the Ship"; and Andrew Jackson's ragged force stood behind cotton bales at New Orleans and bested the pride of British regulars.

Here are America's double-dealing James Wilkinson, Great Britain's gallant Sir Isaac Brock, and Canada's heroine farm wife Laura Secord.