What major issue did impressment contribute to leading up to the War of 1812?

Impressment significantly influenced the national sovereignty debate in the years leading up to the War of 1812. The practice involved the British Royal Navy forcibly recruiting American sailors to serve on their ships, which not only stripped away the rights of American citizens but also raised fundamental questions about the United States' ability to govern itself and maintain independence from foreign influence. This act was seen as a direct affront to American sovereignty and fueled nationalistic sentiments among the populace and political leaders.

National sovereignty refers to the authority of a state to govern itself and make its own decisions free from external control. The widespread anger over impressment illustrated the desire of Americans to assert their rights and independence, leading to a strong push for a military response against Britain. In this context, the War of 1812 can be viewed as a conflict aimed at defending and affirming national sovereignty against perceived British overreach.

While trade disputes and boundary conflicts certainly played roles in the tensions leading up to the war, impressment highlighted the specific issue of national sovereignty, making it a crucial factor in escalating American grievances against Britain and ultimately contributing to the declaration of war.