Which of the following did not contribute to the American naval strategy during the War of 1812?

Engaging the British fleet directly did not contribute effectively to the American naval strategy during the War of 1812. The United States, with a significantly smaller navy compared to Britain, focused on alternative strategies rather than attempting to match the British fleet in direct confrontation. The American forces had only 16 ships, which were outnumbered and outgunned by the Royal Navy. Instead of engaging in large-scale naval battles, the U.S. relied heavily on privateering, where private ships were authorized to attack and capture enemy merchant vessels, and on controlling strategic waterways like the Great Lakes to build a defensive posture. By avoiding direct engagements with the British fleet, the U.S. leveraged its advantages more effectively through smaller, more tactically advantageous military actions.