(1812 wasn’t Canadians, it was the British)

This isn’t accurate in the slightest. Fencible and Militia units were formed in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and the Canadas (upper and lower) from local civilians, who fought in a variety of battles throughout 1812. These civilians were in fact called “Canadians” at the time as well.

And that’s to say nothing of all of the Native peoples of Upper and Lower Canada who aided in the fight.

Ultimately the British held command, but many, many Canadians participated and were involved as well.