June 1, 1812: President James Madison made the case for war against Britain during a speech to Congress. Madison listed several grievances: impressment of American sailors (who were forced to serve in the Royal Navy), renewing and encouraging warfare among Native American peoples in the Northwest, and conducting illegal blockades. Madison said these acts constituted war and that for the United States to ignore them would undermine American sovereignty. On June 4, the House of Representatives voted 79-49 for war, followed by a 19-13 Senate vote on June 17.

Quote of the Day: “Whether the United States shall continue passive under these … accumulating wrongs, or, opposing force to force in defense of their national rights, shall commit a just cause into the hands of the Almighty Disposer of Events, … is a solemn question which the Constitution wisely confides to the legislative department of the Government. In recommending it to their early deliberations I am happy in the assurance that the decision will be worthy the enlightened and patriotic councils of a virtuous, a free, and a powerful nation.” James Madison

Brandus, Paul. This Day in U.S. Military History (pp. 139-140). Bernan Press. Kindle Edition.