Roosevelt criticises Britain's early failure to use its much larger navy effectively against the United States. His assessment is challenged on the grounds that fighting Napoleon and watching several other European navies limited the forces available for America. British 18-pounder frigates subsequently received orders to avoid single-handed engagements with American 24-pounder frigates and to cruise in pairs or small squadrons. More experienced officers and more rigorous practice are also offered as objections to his claim that British gunnery standards remained unchanged. As Napoleon's position deteriorated, Britain could send enough additional ships to impose an effective blockade. Ships of the line then made it increasingly difficult for American frigates to leave harbour.
Chapter · 11:33-17:22
British global commitments and the naval reversal in 1813
British commitments against Napoleon qualify Roosevelt's criticism of early naval performance, while reinforced squadrons and revised frigate orders explain the reversal in 1813.