The Treaty of Ghent concluded the War of 1812, officially ending hostilities between the United States and Great Britain. Signed on December 24, 1814, it resulted in a return to pre-war boundaries, meaning neither side gained territory. The treaty effectively restored peace, yet it did not address the underlying issues that had led to the war, such as maritime rights and impressment of American sailors. The war fostered a sense of national identity and paved the way for westward expansion.