The Battle of Chateauguay, fought near the Chateauguay River, was a pivotal engagement during the War of 1812. Led by Major General Charles de Salaberry, a French-Canadian officer in the British Army, the combined force of British regulars, Canadian militia, and indigenous Mohawks faced off against the United States Army commanded by Brigadier General Wade Hampton. The Americans aimed to capture Montreal by advancing through the Chateauguay Valley. Salaberry effectively deployed his troops in a defensive position, utilizing the landscape to create advantages against a numerically superior enemy.

On October 26, 1813, as the Americans approached, Salaberry's forces executed a series of surprise attacks and counterattacks, leveraging intelligence and quick movements to disrupt Hampton's plans. The use of rifles by the militia allowed for effective long-range shooting, contributing to the confusion among American ranks. As the battle intensified, the indigenous allies played a crucial role, aiding in guerrilla tactics that disoriented the American troops. The Americans, faced with mounting casualties and bogged down by logistics, ultimately retreated, marking the battle as a significant victory for the British forces and their allies.

The outcome of the Battle of Chateauguay had far-reaching consequences, as it effectively halted the American advance into British-held Canada and solidified the resolve of local defenders. The victory enhanced the morale of British and Canadian troops, highlighting the effectiveness of a united front of local militias and indigenous forces against a larger army. De Salaberry's leadership was particularly noted and celebrated, as he managed to rally a disparate group into a cohesive and formidable defensive line. This battle, along with others in the War of 1812, underscored the challenges of the American military campaign and fortified the British position in North America.