The Treaty of Ghent concluded the War of 1812 and marked a return to pre-war boundaries between the U.S. and Britain. Signed on December 24, 1814, the treaty effectively ended hostilities without addressing the underlying issues that had sparked the war, such as maritime rights and trade restrictions. Nonetheless, it laid the groundwork for improved U.S.-British relations in subsequent years. The war itself stimulated American nationalism and manufacturing while highlighting the need for better military organization. The treaty and the war collectively allowed the United States to assert its sovereignty and strengthened its position in international affairs.