Unit 3: “The Road to Independence” The French & Indian War

Sides British & Colonists vs. French & Indians

Causes Rivalry between France and England mainly over the Ohio River Valley English settlers pushing west into French territory

Differences France: built forts to protect their trade and land claims Great Britain: cleared land for planting France did not settle colonies like the British. As a result, France had a better relationship with the Indians

Conflict Dispute over land ownership in the Ohio River Valley. The French built a fort and the British and Colonists were alarmed because they too claimed this land. The French built another fort, Fort Necessity. A group of colonists from Virginia had been given that land. They wanted troops sent in to ask the French to leave. Colonel George Washington (age 22) led the troops. The French won the battle.

War The British declared war on the French. Fought by militia (armed citizens who serve as soldiers) France was clear leader early in the war Great Britain’s prime minister raised taxes and borrowed lots of money to gain the advantage and was successful.

Treaty of Paris Ended the French & Indian war in 1763 Britain gained control of Canada and all the land east of the Mississippi River, except New Orleans (already controlled by Spain).

Outcome Colonists were angry with weakness of British army and lack of respect (remember militia?) British felt the colonists had not provided enough support

**Lasting Effects of the War** British The British were mad. They had a large debt and new land to protect and did not think the colonists did enough to help. The British no longer followed the policy of Salutary Neglect and established direct control over the colonies. Self-government was replaced by royal governors.

**Lasting Effects of the War** The Colonists The colonists felt that they did do their part in fighting the war. They felt that the British ending Salutary Neglect was a violation of their rights. Example: Parents let you get away with things and then change the rules…curfew but not enforced.