The Pig War: A Tension Over a Pig

This chapter explores the geographical beauty and historical context of the Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands, setting the stage for the peculiar conflict known as the Pig War. Using a backdrop of geopolitical tensions between the British Empire and the United States in the 19th century, it details the events leading up to the 1859 incident involving a Berkshire pig. The narrative highlights the importance of diplomacy over military confrontation, culminating in a peaceful resolution to a dispute that could have spiraled into war.