"Having studied around the world, it was most amazing to view American textbooks alongside of those of other countries. The biggest problem that I saw was historical facts that were left out - ie the US losing the war of 1812 to Canada. This is mentioned in many texts from other sources, but I never saw it in a US textbook."

Not surprising that it's not in any American textbook. I would be surprised to see that in any textbook - Canada did not exist in 1812. Regardless, the war between Great Britain and the US should likely be called a draw, as nothing was gained nor lost on either side (other than lives, property and Washington DC. Think they'd be willing to come burn it again ).

"...but for years my US relatives did not have the exposure to facts, media, open exchanges available in Europe....."

That was intended as a joke right?