The conflict that broke out in 1812 seemed born of an almost subconscious desire for a war to complete the separation of America from England begun by the War of Independence. The war when it came was bloody and hard fought. In one last attempt to break the deadlock the British sent Major-General Sir Edward Pakenham to capture New Orleans. The troops he commanded were elite, veteran regiments. Andrew Jackson, leading the defenders, commanded a mixed force including militia, free Negro battalions, Indians and a group of local pirates. This title describes how this mixed force decisively defeated the British veterans in a battle that has become part of American legend.

# Origins of the Campaign

# Plans and Preparations

# The Opposing Commanders

# The Opposing Armies

# Initial Encounters

# The Battle of New Orleans

# Aftermath

# The Battlefield Today

# Chronology

# A Guide to Further Reading

# Wargaming New Orleans

Tim Pickles, a Yorkshireman by birth, now resides in New Orleans, USA. He worked for many years as a figurine modeller but now specialises as an historical consultant, battle co-ordinator and costume designer in the film industry. He was one of the founders of the Napoleonic Association, undertaking the role of Wellington, commanding British forces at re-enactments between 1990 and 1995.