Naval Tactics

Spring anchors—more precisely, springs, stern anchors, and kedge anchors—allowed Commodore Thomas Macdonough’s anchored squadron to pivot and present fresh broadsides at Plattsburgh Bay on 11 September 1814. This tactical preparation helped the Americans defeat a stronger British squadron and forced the British army to retreat during the War of 1812.

An overview of the tactics, technology, and command practices that defined naval combat in the Age of Sail, with specific attention to their application during the War of 1812.