The United States declares war on Great Britain in what is known as the War of 1812 or the Second War for Independence. The Indians side   with the British and wreak havoc on settlers in Illinois Territory. Governor Ninian Edwards (Edwardsville is named after him) organizes copanies of mounted rangers to protect the area. Fort Russell, north of Edwardsville, becomes the headquarters of troops who are led by Col. William Russell of Kentucky.