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near Washington, laid out in 1742, is celebrated as the site, not only of the battle, but of the duelling-ground where many famous duels growing out of quarrels in Washington were fought, e. g., that in which Barron killed Decatur in 1820. Toward the latter part of the War of 1812 General Ross and Admiral Cockburn with about 5000 men appeared in Chesapeake Bay to attack Washington. The American forces fell back to Bladensburg (four miles from Washington) and awaited the British. The Americans numbered about 7000 men, but were scattered and untrained. August 24, 1814, the British advanced to the attack. The American artillery held them in check for a time, but the troops rallied and pushed forward. The Americans fled in wild disorder; the confusion spread and soon General Winder, the American commander, gave orders for a general retreat. By this battle Washington was exposed to capture. The American loss was seventy-six men; the British more than 500 killed and wounded.