What reason did Madison give Congress for declaring war in 1812?

seizure of American ships and sailors
predatory English trade practices
attack on New Orleans
seizure of Washington, D.C.

1 answer

President James Madison gave Congress several reasons for declaring war in 1812, but the primary reasons included the "seizure of American ships and sailors" and "predatory English trade practices." The British were interfering with American merchant shipping and impressing American sailors into their navy, which was a significant source of tension. Therefore, the correct answer to your question is the "seizure of American ships and sailors," along with the broader context of trade practices.