If they wanted to be historically accurate, they probably should’ve included oil and a little kindling.

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The War of 1812 was a battle fought between the United States and the United Kingdom. While the UK battled France during the Napoleonic Wars, it began restricting the US's trade with France, and later began capturing and conscripting American sailors from merchant vessels into the British Navy. The US voted to go to war with the UK in June 1812.

During the war, the US repeatedly attempted to invade British territory in Canada (unsuccessfully) and fought the British on the open seas. After Napoleon abdicated in 1814, the UK was able to focus on pushing back harder against the US, and the two countries eventually signed a peace treaty (the Treaty of Ghent) later that year.

President James Madison and first lady Dolley were unable to return to the White House due to the significant damage. Repairs were finally completed in 1817.

Not relevant to this story, but a fun fact: Major General Ross allowed American lawyer Francis Scott Key onto his ship prior to the Battle of Baltimore, and the assault on the city actually inspired the lyrics of the "Star Spangled Banner."