Final answer:
Madison inherited foreign relation issues from Jefferson, and despite seeking peace, was pressured to declare war due to British provocations. The burning of Washington D.C. is seen as a harsh wartime act but one reflected in the era's military strategies. The Treaty of Ghent ended the war and solidified American national identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Issues relating to the War of 1812 are complex and can be debated from various perspectives. President James Madison inherited challenging foreign relations problems from his predecessor, Thomas Jefferson. Driven by ongoing British harassment of American shipping, Madison sought for a peaceful resolution but faced immense pressure, particularly from the War Hawks in Congress such as Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun, to take military action.
Concerning the burning of Washington D.C., while it can be seen as a military tactic, particularly in the era's context of war, from today's standpoint, such acts would be considered egregious violations of international conduct. However, the burning must be understood within the historical situation as an act during open war between two nations.
Finally, despite the Treaty of Ghent which concluded the war without major territorial gains for any side, the War of 1812 was politically significant for the United States. It affirmed American sovereignty against British imperialism and greatly influenced national identity, though the majority of the fighting, including the Battle of New Orleans, had not led to decisive conquests by either side.