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

Question

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

Answer 1

James Madison, in his address to Congress when declaring war in 1812, primarily cited the seizure of American ships and sailors as a key reason for the declaration of war against Britain. He highlighted the violations of American neutrality, the interference with American trade, and the impressment of American sailors by the British navy. While other issues, such as predatory trade practices and conflicts with Native Americans influenced the decision, the seizure of ships and sailors was a central grievance that Madison emphasized.