Overview
This lecture covers the Seven Years War, highlighting its global scope, key participants, causes, major battles, outcomes, and its significant impact on colonial powers and indigenous peoples.
The Basics of the Seven Years War
- The Seven Years War lasted from 1756 to 1763, though some historians see it as part of a longer conflict.
- Fought primarily between Britain and France, with support from allies and colonists, including Native Americans.
- The conflict spanned Europe, North America, the Caribbean, West Africa, and India, making it the first global war.
- The main causes were competition for land and, more importantly, control of trade and colonial wealth.
Major Theatres and Battles
- In North America, British colonists wanted to expand westward onto French-controlled land.
- George Washington was a notable early commander; the British won key battles like the Plains of Abraham in Quebec, 1759.
- Native Americans participated on both sides, though generally favored the French.
- The defeat of the French decreased their presence, making it harder for Native tribes to resist British expansion.
Native Americans and Colonial Relations
- Native Americans lived in tribal groups and practiced small-scale farming and hunting.
- Property was used communally, differing from European private ownership, leading to misunderstandings and land disputes.
- French tended to have better relations with Native Americans due to smaller settlements and efforts to understand local languages and culture.
Global Conflicts Beyond North America
- In the Caribbean, Britain, France, and Spain fought over valuable sugar colonies; disease killed more soldiers than battle.
- In West Africa, British and French forces clashed over trading posts and resources such as gum Arabic.
- In India, European powers sided with local princely states; the British East India Company gained dominance after the Battle of Plassey.
Consequences and Legacy
- The Treaty of Paris (1763) ended the war, reducing French influence in North America, the Caribbean, and India.
- Up to one million people died; civilian populations often suffered from pillaging and raids.
- Britain gained territory but doubled its national debt, leading to taxes on American colonists and sparking the American Revolution.
- The war marked the end of France's first colonial empire and the rise of Britain's global dominance.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Seven Years War — A global conflict (1756–1763) between major European powers for colonial dominance.
- Plains of Abraham — 1759 battle near Quebec, crucial British victory over France.
- Treaty of Paris (1763) — Agreement ending the war, redrawing colonial territories.
- British East India Company — Company with military power, central to British expansion in India.
- Black Hole of Calcutta — Incident where British prisoners died in a crowded prison in India.
- Nawab — Local ruler or prince in India under the Mughal Empire.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review how war debt led to new British colonial policies in America.
- Read about the impact of the Treaty of Paris and the rise of British power in India.