Bitter Enemies to Strong Allies

I just finished the second book in this historical fiction (ok, historical romance) series by MaryLu Tyndall that takes place during the War of 1812. I'll admit that I don't EVER remember learning ANYTHING about the War of 1812. Not one thing. Seriously. So that's one thing that I really like about these books. I am actually learning about history! Fun AND educational! So anyways, in case you too don't remember anything about this war, it was when England decided that they wanted us back & launched a war on us to do it. As I read about it, it's just so interesting to me when the American characters comment on how "odious" the British accent is to them when in modern days, I'd say the most Americans love a good British accent (I mean, how many movies and TV shows have British actors in them? WITH their accents? We LOVE it. I don't know if I'd trust an American who didn't like a British accent. I mean, something would have to be wrong in their psyche....). Or just how strong the animosity between the two countries was. It just seems weird that England is probably our closest ally now. Funny how things change...in less than 200 years....probably in less than 100 years considering that England was our ally by the World Wars (or at least WWII). I think we must be likable =D