Colonial Rivalries in North America

Land Claims in North America

• In 1754, three European powers claimed land in North America: France, England, and Spain.
• France claimed the lands to the north and middle of the continent.
• Spain claimed the lands to the south and west of the continent.
• England claimed the Atlantic coast.

The Ohio Valley Conflict

• The Ohio Valley, stretching along the Ohio River from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River, was claimed by both France and England.
• The British saw the land as crucial for trade and growth.
• The French saw it as a bridge connecting Canada and Louisiana.
• Both sides refused to share the land, leading to conflicts.

The Start of the War

• In the early 1750s, France sent troops to the Ohio Valley and built forts west of the Appalachian Mountains.
• Both France and Britain formed alliances with Native American tribes in the Ohio Valley.
• In 1754, George Washington, 21 years old, led 150 Virginian troops to attack the French at Fort Duquesne.
• Washington and his troops were outnumbered and built Fort Necessity, but were forced to surrender to the French and their Native American allies.

The Colonies' Response

• In June 1754, delegates from each colony met to decide on a plan of action.
• The colonies were not united as one country, making it difficult to fight in a war.
• They sent word to the British Parliament asking for help.

The Battle of Fort Duquesne

• In July 1755, Washington accompanied General Edward Braddock in his march to conquer Fort Duquesne.
• The British were unprepared and used traditional open-field tactics, while the French and Native Americans used guerrilla warfare.
• Despite being outnumbered, the French won the battle.

Discover how France, England, and Spain claimed land in North America in the 18th century, leading to conflicts over the Ohio Valley. Learn about the territorial disputes and their impact on trade and growth.