During the War of 1812, the young United States fought Great Britain from 1812 to 1815 to protect its rights and economic independence while facing superior enemy forces on the homefront and the high seas. The strategically important Chesapeake Bay region bore the brunt of the war, with shipping blockades choking commerce and enemy raids ravaging the area, and events there proved crucial to the war’s outcome. Although the war ended without a clear victor, the United States preserved its democracy and emerged with heightened stature on the world stage. In the Chesapeake, the conflict left tangible evidence and far-reaching impacts on the country and the world. After a 25-hour bombardment at Fort McHenry, soldiers raised a large American flag early on September 14, 1814, signaling British retreat and inspiring Francis Scott Key to write the words that became America’s national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner.