08/20/2026
On land, the War of 1812 was largely a disappointment for the United States, with the army and militia suffering many defeats. However, at sea the United States Navy and Marines roughly handled the Royal Navy, winning stunning victories. On August 19, 1812 the USS Constitution sighted and closed with the HMS Guerriere. During the battle, cannon balls bounced off the thick oak sides of the Constitution, with men exclaiming "Her sides are made of iron!" The Guerriere's Captain struck her flag and surrendered, with the ship scuttled the next day. It was the first in a long line of victories for the United States on the water.