Broadside by Alexander Smyth, 1812

Abstract

A broadside issued by Alexander Smyth from the Camp near Buffalo, November 10, 1812. The broadside is addressed “To the Men of the state of New York” and was issued during the War of 1812. Smyth hopes to raise support for an invasion of Canada led by him, and criticizes the efforts made in the war to date, noting that “the nation has been unfortunate in the selection of some of those who have directed it. One Army has been disgracefully surrendered and lost. Another has been sacrificed by a precipitate attempt to pass it over at the strongest point of the enemy’s lines, with most incompetent means. The cause of these miscarriages is apparent. The commanders were popular men, ‘destitute alike of theory and experience’ in the art of war”.

He continues that “in a few days, the troops under my command will plant the American standard in Canada…They will conquer, or they will die…Advance then to our aid…but remember, that every man who accompanies us, places himself under my command…”