The event that solidified the idea of American exceptionalism during the War of 1812 was the Battle of New Orleans. Fought in January 1815, this decisive victory for the American forces, led by Andrew Jackson, served as a unifying moment for the nation. Despite the war officially ending weeks earlier, the battle instilled a sense of nationalism and pride among Americans, reinforcing the belief in their unique role on the global stage. This perception helped shape the nation’s identity and its aspirations as a democratic experiment, distinct from European powers.