<p>The Battle of New Orleans was unknowingly fought after the signing of the Treaty of Ghent, but the American victory had important consequences. This fascinating examination of the long campaign up the Mississippi River and the final battle details the high stakes and explores the true British motivation for their bloody offensive. They attacked to claim New Orleans for their Spanish allies, which would have voided the Louisiana Purchase, robbed the United States of a valuable port, and antagonized France, Britain's ancient foe. The American forces—a disparate group under Gen. Andrew Jackson—could have been crushed, but for one British commander's fatal error.</p>