3. The Aroostook “War”: Fighting Over Trees and Territory
This 1838-1839 “war” featured American and Canadian lumberjacks facing off over valuable timber in disputed territory. Maine sent militia north while Britain dispatched troops. Congress authorized 50,000 men and $10 million for war. Despite this buildup, not a single battle occurred in this bloodless conflict nicknamed the “Pork and Beans War” after militia rations. The Webster-Ashburton Treaty finally settled the border.
