The war began
because Britain interfered with American trade and shipping on the
high seas, and because the U.S. also blamed Britain for inciting and
supporting hostile Indians on the frontier. At that time Ohio was
part of the frontier.
Before the battle,
Britain held the Detroit and Lake Erie region. Because the British attack
on Fort Stephenson failed, the British were turned back. They were then
defeated in the Battle of Lake Erie and later battles. The battle of
Fort Stephenson was the last western battle fought in U.S. territory.
Major Croghan, the commander of Fort Stephenson, was promoted to Lieutenant
Colonel after his victory over the British forces.