The War of 1812 changed the way most Americans saw their nation and themselves. The United States had held off a powerful enemy. American soldiers and sailors demonstrated that they could fight. Strong military leaders like William Henry Harrison and Andrew Jackson emerged from battles to become national leaders.

Volunteers from many different religions and backgrounds had joined together to defend their country. All of these factors contributed to a growing sense of Nationalism. Americans developed a sense of common identity. They wanted to see the United States grow and most people support western expansion.

Not all people took part in this wave of Nationalism. American Indians had few rights. The U.S. government did not protect them and allowed settlers to take their lands. Most African-Americans still lived in slavery. The law did not treat them as citizens.