The War of 1812 is a four-part documentary series that brings to life an extraordinary, but not well understood, conflict that decided the fate of North America, confirmed the creation of Canada, and annihilated for all time the dream of an independent Native nation.

Part One: "When I Meet My Doom..."
Tension mounts between the United States and Great Britain, making war inevitable. British General Isaac Brock is determined to put up a good fight against the Americans. He sends 600 Ojibwa, 180 French-Canadian voyageurs and 60 redcoats to take Fort Mackinac, leading to the first victory of the war. Brock signs an agreement with Tecumseh, forging an alliance between British troops and Canada's First Nations. This episode also covers the taking of Detroit, the surrender of Governor Hull, the Battle of Queenston Heights and the death of General Brock.

Part Two: "Or Leave Our Bones Upon Them..."
After the death of Brock, Chief Tecumseh, whom Harrison is determined to vanquish, plays an increasingly important role. Sir George Prevost takes command and Procter weakens. With the destruction of Prophetstown, the despair of the Natives increases causing massacres at Fort Dearborn, at Frenchtown and on the Raison River. The attack on Fort Meigs fails and Tecumseh's reputation grows when he saves the lives of prisoners. After their defeat at the Battle of Moraviantown and the Battle of Lake Erie, the British and their allies withdraw to Canada; Tecumseh is killed by the pursuing Americans.

Part Three: "So Awful a Night..."
The Niagara frontier and the St. Lawrence Valley are protected. French-Canadian troops, including a detachment of Voltigeurs under De Salaberry, repel an American attack at Lacolle. British and American ships are locked in a stalemate on Lake Ontario. Wilkinson descends the St. Lawrence River. Hampton moves his troops north from Plattsburg. The American advance is repulsed at the Battles of Châteauguay and Crysler's Farm. The 104th regiment marches from Fredericton to Kingston. By the end of 1813, much of Canada has been laid waste by war but continues to resist the invaders. New England discusses secession. The year 1814 is marked by tragic and bloody clashes.

Part Four: "The Rocket's Red Glare..."
It is a critical point in the war. The American army rebuilds as the end of the Napoleonic Wars frees up troops in Europe. Britain sends battle-seasoned reinforcements to the North American front, at Quebec. Bloody battles on the Niagara frontier end in stalemate. The British sail up Chesapeake Bay and burn public buildings in Washington. Fort McHenry is bombarded. Prevost marches his forces south and halts at Plattsburg. The British squadron on Lake Champlain is defeated and Prevost withdraws. Peace negotiations result in the signing of the Treaty of Ghent in 1814. The British are mown down at New Orleans. Prevost is recalled and court-martialled.

Director: Brian McKenna ● Producers: Arnie Gelbart (Galafilm Inc.) & Andrea Nemtin (PTV Productions) ● Run time: 184 minutes