British Strategy

Major General Edward Pakenham’s final plan called for a predawn assault on Major General Jackson’s position to reduce the effectiveness of American artillery fire. The attack was complicated and depended on split-second timing and coordination among four main groups. Lieutenant Colonel Thornton was to take the 85th Regiment across the Mississippi River and capture David Morgan’s line on the West Bank. Major General Samuel Gidds was to attack near the cypress swamp, use fascines and ladders to cross the Rodriguez Canal, and strike the American rampart near Batteries 7 and 8. Major General John Keane was to make a demonstration and feint toward the river to draw the fire of the heavier American guns. Lieutenant Colonel Rennie was to advance at the same time along the riverbank below the levee and spike the guns in the redoubt on the American right. The plan’s success depended on Pakenham’s command moving decisively and surprising the Americans at the ramparts before any firing began.

Chalmette, Louisiana · United States