WHS Presents: The War of 1812 at 200

On Tuesday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Fisher School, the Westwood Historical Society will host a program, "The War of 1812 at 200" featuring Gary Hylander.

The War of 1812, also known as the Second War of American Independence, was a most peculiar conflict. It began after the causes for the war ceased to exist. The nation’s most celebrated military victory came after the peace treaty had been signed and the treaty itself resolved none of the issues that had prompted the conflict. Despite these failings, the United States emerged a stronger, prouder and more unified country than ever before. Fueled by the spirit of manifest destiny, Americans turned their back on Europe and began a long steady march westward across the continent. After 200 years, Gary Hylander looks back at the War of 1812 from an historical perspective and evaluates its impact.

Gary L. Hylander earned his Ph.D. at Boston College. His advisor and dissertation director was the noted Boston historian, Thomas H. O’Connor. Dr. Hylander is a professor of American History at Stonehill College where he specializes as a Presidential Historian. Gary is a frequent presenter at library forums, historical societies, senior living centers, and civic and professional organizations.