James D. Edgar, Captain, U.S. Army, Retired, read this paper before the Medical History Society of the University of Oregon Medical School on February 13, 2916. The paper gives brief glimpses into the history of the War of 1812, including the lack of support due to poor planning, with more specific descriptions of ailments of individuals during the conflict, one of which was an epidemic that affected large swaths of men. Edgar notes that doctors and surgeons during this war had similar high rankings as officers in the military, adding to their importance during this time. Ultimately, despite the poor planning and medical departments at the whim of others in control, it did prove the importance of having medical care readily available and bolstered the formation of general hospitals outside of wartime.