redlightning
Banned
What if the Congress had been in session during the winter of 1804 when the British ship Leopard attacked American shipping and kidnapped dozens of American men? How does this action play out under Thomas Jefferson
With Britain weirdly pouring major resources into Canada, Napoleon crosses the Channel!
With Britain weirdly pouring major resources into Canada, Napoleon crosses the Channel!
The US I think actually have a better Navy in 1804 than in 1812 but this is not saying much. The British do not have an expeditionary force in Spain so yes major resources could in theory be poured while the Channel fleet continues to guard against invasion quite handily.
Unless this war ends within a year, Britain won't be sending troops to Scandinavia, or to Spain. Something has to give; Britain didn't have infinite supplies of men.
How about a naval blockade that diverts American attention from Canada? The army could remain in reserve [for home defence or Continental] expeditions. Anyway, Britain's stronger navy and weaker army and the priorities are in Europe, which require an army to counter Napoleon anyway.
It all depends how long America wants to keep the war going really. They're willing to offer peace right away, Britain will say ok.
If they let it drag on though....Britain can wait longer than they can. But is more likely to want something for its efforts
Britain faced severe economic problems just from the Embargo Act alone in OTL. Add in American privateering at a time when the Spanish markets are closed and Europe is being sewn up...
In 1804 the US has the Louisiana Purchase just for one year and AFAIK its actually control was still quite tenuous. If the UK tries to take New Orleans, are their odds better than in 1812?