Battle of Plattsburgh

The Battle of Plattsburgh was the final battle (not counting the Battle of New Orleans) in the War of 1812. On September 1, 1814, British troops under the command of Governor General Sir George Prevost invaded from Canada and quickly advanced to Plattsburgh, New York. However, the land forces waited to attack the town until September 11, when the British fleet under Captain George Downie arrived on nearby Lake Champlain. The American fleet under the command of Lieutenant (later Commodore) Thomas MacDonough, "the Hero of Lake Champlain", defeated the British fleet in Plattsburgh Bay by virtue of superior tactics and preparation, forcing the surrender of the entire British force. At the same time American brigadier-general Alexander Macomb led the militia troops to victory as well.