On January 8, 1815, the final battle of the War of 1812 took place in New Orleans. Under the command of Andrew Jackson, American forces successfully defended New Orleans against more than twice as many British soldiers. British losses included 291 killed, 1,262 wounded, and 484 missing, while American losses were a comparatively few 13 killed, 39 wounded, and 19 missing. Although a treaty had already been signed officially ending the war, the triumph maintained American control of the Louisiana Territory, allowing for the rapid settlement along the Mississippi River that was to come.
Designed by Robert J. Jones, the stamp portrays General Andrew Jackson leading his forces into battle against the troops of Sir Edward Pakenham. Also included in the design is a reproduction of the Battle of New Orleans Sesquicentennial medal, which emphasized the 150 years of unbroken peace between England and the United States. Major General Andrew Jackson is depicted sitting astride a horse and appears to be directing an advance with his saber. Although much of the battle was in fact fought defensively behind bales of cotton, the designers thought that the chosen design was far more dynamic.
