During the War of 1812, British forces sought to expand their territorial control in the United States, particularly in the southern regions. In January 1815, they targeted Fort Peter located in St. Marys, Georgia, which was strategically important due its proximity to the Atlantic coast and the potential it offered for operations against American supply lines. Fort Peter was defended by a small garrison of American troops, who were largely inexperienced and ill-prepared for the British assault.

On January 13, a well-coordinated British force launched an attack on the fort. The command structure of the British forces was organized, taking advantage of superior numbers and better experience. The American defenders, caught off-guard and lacking adequate reinforcements, quickly found themselves outmatched. The battle was brief but intense, leading to British control over the fort and a significant morale blow for the American forces in the South.

The capture of Fort Peter illustrated the ongoing challenges faced by American troops in defending their territory during the War of 1812. It also showcased the British strategy of targeting key installations to undermine American defenses along the southeastern coast. The fall of the fort represented a successful operation for British commanders who aimed to disrupt American logistics and control coastal access in this region.