Heimler's History: Unit 3 Topic 2 - French and Indian War

Overview

• Time Period: 1754 - 1800
• Focus: Causes and effects of the French and Indian War

Introduction

• The French and Indian War was part of a larger global conflict known as the Seven Years' War.
• The conflict was between British and French forces, both allied with various American Indian groups.

Causes of the War

• Territorial Disputes: British American colonists encroached on Ohio River Valley lands claimed by the French.
• George Washington's Role: Sent to warn the French, his actions at Fort Duquesne helped ignite the conflict.
• The Albany Congress (1754)
  • Aim: Organize colonial defense, trade, and expansion.
  • Involved several British colonies and the Iroquois Confederacy.
  • Albany Plan of Union: Proposed by Benjamin Franklin, sought a council for defense and trade but was rejected.

Course of the War

• Initially, the French dominated the conflict.
• British policies caused colonial resentment:
  • Impressment: Forced American men into Royal Navy service.
  • Quartering: British troops housed in colonial homes, often forcibly.

Conclusion of the War

• Peace of Paris (1763)
  • Results:
    • Spain ceded Florida to Britain.
    • French presence ended in North America; Spain got lands west of the Mississippi.
    • British gained land east of the Mississippi (Ohio River Valley).

Effects of the War

1. Westward Expansion
   • Colonists moved into Ohio River Valley, causing conflicts with Native Americans.
   • Pontiac's Rebellion: Ottowa leader raided encroaching settlements.
   • Proclamation Line of 1763: British attempt to prevent westward colonial expansion, largely ignored by colonists.
2. Economic Consequences
   • War increased British national debt, led to higher colonial taxes.
   • Increased cost of running colonies.
   • Set stage for future colonial resentment against British policies.

Conclusion

• The French and Indian War set significant precedents for colonial dissatisfaction, contributing to the American Revolutionary period.
• Further consequences and details will be discussed in upcoming topics.

• Study Tip: Consider using the Ultimate Review Packet for further study and preparation for exams.