New France: Rivalry and Conflict

Constant Conflict French were constantly involved in minor conflicts with several groups The British The Iroquois Other Native groups Most conflict was over territories, access to resources, and long term goals.

Major Wars The major wars were European wars that carried over to colonies. King William’s War (“Grand Alliance War”, 1689-1697) Queen Anne’s War (“War of the Spanish Succession”, 1704-1713) “Seven Years War” (1755-1763)” Yes, I know that’s EIGHT years, but it took them a year to sign the treaty. Also the war of 1744, but as little changed in this conflict, it won’t really be discussed.

King William’s War (1689-1697) The goal was to limit Louis the XIV’s expansion overseas (mercantilist ideas) French in colonies led by 70 yr. old general Frontenac in raids against the 13 colonies. Acadia was captured, Quebec stood tall, British lost St. John’s, Newfoundland. HBC operations were severely disrupted. Ended with treaty of Ryswick in 1697, all captured territories were returned.

Queen Anne’s War (1704-1713) Also known as the “War of Spanish Succession” Roughly the same outcomes as last war in North America, but the British beat the French in Europe. Treaty of Utrecht gave Britain territory in India, Canada and strategic location of Gibraltar* . *key to the expansion of Britain as a naval power.

The Seven Years War (1755-1763) Causes Unlike the others, it originated in North America. People of the 13 British colonies wanted access to the fertile Ohio valley that was in French hands. Fighting had started between the 2 sides even while France and Britain were at peace.

Major Events Ohio battles included George Washington (maybe you’ve heard of him) leading some British forces. Expulsion of the Acadians(1755): Acadians (formerly French subjects) were forcibly removed from their homes because they refused to swear loyalty to Britain. Thousands of people were displaced and exiled from their homes which were then claimed by New Englanders. Many fled to New Orleans, and elsewhere in New France.

Major Battles General Wolfe captured Louisburg, the doorway to the St. Lawrence. Marquis de Montcalm, leader of French forces was at odds with his Governor, the Marquis de Vaudreuil. French began to run short on food as farmers were fighting. Wolfe (ruthless tactician that he is) , used this. Arriving near Quebec, put out orders that any abandoned farms would be burned. Many French deserted to keep their farms.

The Plains of Abraham

Plains of Abraham (1759) Wolfe approached Quebec by the St. Lawrence. Discovered “Anse au Foulon” and his men scaled the cliffs. Montcalm saw the “thin red line” of 4500 troops. His militiamen fired too early, the British waited till they were in range, and leveled the French forces. Wolfe was killed, Montcalm was mortally wounded. Quebec surrendered. 1760, Montreal captured 1763, treaty of Paris. New France becomes a British possession.