Divisions in the War of 1812

The War of 1812, although created and emphasized regional and political divisions within the United States, eventually formed a heightened sense of nationalism. The decision to go to war was a greatly divided one. While the agricultural and, consequently, Southern states gently embraced the idea of conquering Canada, the seafaring New England region deeply rejected it, believing more agrarian states would increase the power of the Jeffersonian Republicans. New England during the war generously helped the British by lending money, sending supplies to Canada, and alerting blockades of escaping American ships. Furthermore, the Hartford Convention, which united New England states in a convention to discuss grievences and seek redress for wrongs, created a sense of treason within those states from the Republicans.
Despite these great divisions between Federalists and Republicans, the war ended with a great sense of national unity. Culture developed and the wonders of America was celebrated in many ways, including finance. This resulting nationalism was much more powerful than the political and regional divisions.