In 1812, america declared war on great britain, which was already at war with france. among the causes of this war, four stand out. first, americans objected to restrictions britain was enforcing to prevent neutral american merchants from trading with the french.

interest groups send representatives to state capitals and to washington, d.c. to put pressure on members of congress and other policymakers. they engage in lobbying, or the organized process of influencing legislation or policy. lobbying can take many forms. interest groups can testify in congressional hearings.