French and Indian War Flashcards

Combatants in the War

• The French and Indian War involved France and Britain as the primary combatants.
• Native Americans allied with France to resist land encroachment by the British.

Overview of the Conflict

• The war occurred in North America from 1756 to 1763 and is also known as the Seven Years' War.
• Tensions escalated as France expanded into the Ohio River region.

Territorial Control

• At the war's start, France possessed the Louisiana Territory and Canada.
• By the outbreak of war, France controlled most of eastern Canada.

Timeline of Events

• Initial fighting began in 1754, with formal war declaration occurring in 1756.
• Disputes over the Ohio Territory triggered the conflict.

Military Dynamics

• British forces initially outnumbered the French, but Native American tribes supported the French due to land concerns.
• Early in the war, British forces suffered defeats against French and Native American forces.

Political Changes

• William Pitt became Britain's Secretary of State in 1756, significantly altering the war's trajectory.
• Pitt increased funding and resources for the British campaign in North America.

Battle Outcomes

• British forces successfully captured several French forts due to resource enhancements.
• Naval battles favored the British, leading to improved control at sea.

Shifts in Alliances

• As the conflict progressed, Native American allies began to withdraw support for the French, benefiting the British.
• The British victory at the Plains of Abraham in 1759 led to their occupation of Quebec.

Conclusion of the War

• Control of Montreal was achieved the following year, signaling the war's effective end.
• The Treaty of Paris was signed on February 10, 1763, marking the official conclusion of the war.

Treaty Implications

• France ceded all territories in North America west of the Mississippi to Britain while retaining the islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique.
• Post-war, English colonists were less reliant on British military support against France.

Financial Consequences

• The costly war prompted Britain to expect financial contributions from the American colonies through taxation.
• These expectations contributed to the tensions leading to the American Revolution.

Emerging National Identity

• The war highlighted distinctions between English citizens and American colonists, fostering aspirations for independence.
• Conflicts emerging from trade and land disputes with Native Americans set the stage for future hostilities.

Additional Key Figures

• George Washington, then a 21-year-old surveyor for the Virginia militia, later became the first President of the United States.
• The Albany Congress in 1754 sought to unify colonial efforts against the French, involving key colonies.

Concepts of Alliance

• Alliances formed throughout the conflict represented groups sharing mutual goals and collaborating against common adversaries.

Prominent Historical Figures

• Benjamin Franklin, a pivotal figure known for his roles as a diplomat, scientist, and writer, contributed to early American political dialogue.