I'm not very good at "if" questions, so I need some help on this one. Please help if you can.

If communications were fast enough to get messages across the Atlantic in a week, then?

a. the War of 1812 would not have been fought.
b. the United States would have captured Canada.
c. Jackson would not have fought the Battle of New Orleans.
d. the Americans would not have lost their capital city.

Check this article.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_New_Orleans

To answer this type of "if" question, we need to analyze the given information and consider the logical implications. In this case, the premise is that if communications were fast enough to get messages across the Atlantic in a week. Let's evaluate each option given:

a. If communications were fast enough, it is possible that the War of 1812 would not have been fought. However, it is important to note that the cause of the war was not solely dependent on slow communication, so this option could be considered plausible but not definitive.

b. If communications were fast enough, it does not necessarily mean that the United States would automatically capture Canada. While faster communication might have facilitated military strategies and coordination, it is not a direct guarantee of capturing an entire country.

c. If communications were fast enough, it could have potentially affected the Battle of New Orleans. However, it is crucial to remember that the battle took place after the Treaty of Ghent had already been signed, effectively ending the War of 1812. Therefore, faster communication may not have had a significant impact on this particular battle.

d. If communications were fast enough, it is possible that the Americans would not have lost their capital city during the War of 1812. Faster communication could have allowed for quicker reinforcement and coordination, potentially changing the outcome. Therefore, this option seems to have the most direct connection to the given premise.

In conclusion, based on the information given, option d, "the Americans would not have lost their capital city," seems to be the most plausible outcome if communications were fast enough to get messages across the Atlantic in a week. However, it is important to understand that historical events are influenced by multiple factors, and these "if" questions often involve some level of speculation.