8 JAN 1815 - BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS #Warof1812
Ten thousand British troops under Maj Gen Sir Edward Pakenham landed unopposed at Lake Borgne, 15 miles from New Orleans, and moved to seize the city and control of the lower Mississippi Valley.
Ten thousand British troops under Maj Gen Sir Edward Pakenham landed unopposed at Lake Borgne, 15 miles from New Orleans, and moved to seize the city and control of the lower Mississippi Valley.
Maj Gen Andrew Jackson ordered an immediate attack on the British camp on the night of 23-24 December with 2,000 men. Although repulsed, the attack delayed the enemy advance and the Americans established Line JACKSON, five miles from New Orleans with about 3,500 men.
After probing attacks on 28 Dec, the British led by MG Edward Pakenham launched a general attack on 8 January with 5,300 men advancing in three brigades over open ground in the main effort. Withering musket, rifle and artillery fire repulsed the assault with heavy losses.
A supporting attack by 1,000 men on the west bank forced American infantry to retreat from forward positions, but failed to penetrate Line BOISGERVAIS. With Pakenham mortally wounded, Brig Gen John Lambert called off the attack giving Jackson and the Americans the victory
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
