Few events have had such a significant impact on the formation of the United States as the French and Indian War. Storyboard That's activities and lesson plans will engage students as they learn about this pivotal time in US history.
French and Indian War Timeline Facts - Seven Years War Timeline
Storyboard Text
French Settle on the Forks of the Ohio River Valley
French and Indian War Timeline
In 1750, the French settled on the forks of the Ohio River Valley. The British and French began a series of small quarrels over the surrounding land and the resources on it.
Washington Surrenders Fort Necessity
Captain Jumonville Killed
In 1754, 22-year-old George Washington was sent by the British to force the French out of the Ohio River Valley. Following the surrender of the French, a Native American ally violated the rules of war and executed the surrendered French Captain Jumonville.
In 1754, George Washington lost the battle of Fort Necessity. With the help of Native American allies, the French were able to use guerrilla warfare tactics to weaken Washington's troops. Following the battle, Washington was forced to sign the surrender document which, unknown to him, also admitted to murdering the French captain.
French Captain Uses Native American Camouflage
Battle of Fort Duquesne
In a monumental decision for the French military, a French Captain, Daniel Liénard de Beaujeu, wore Native America camouflage into battle. This seemingly insignificant event defined how the French were willing to immerse themselves in Native culture, while the British refused to lose their "honor" and tradition.
William Pitt Increases War Spending
Led by General Edward Braddock, the British clashed with the French for reacquisition of Fort Duquesne and the forks of the Ohio River Valley. Unable to see their camouflaged French enemies, the British red-coats lost 977 men, while the French only lost nine.
Quebec Falls to the British
William Pitt became a Secretary of State for Great Britain and quickly began to drastically increase the spending on the war. The French were unable to match the financial spending and this would become the major turning point of the war.
In 1759, the British were led by General James Wolfe to Quebec and were able to defeat the French forces. The battle was fought on the Plains of Abraham, and within 20 minutes, the French forces surrendered. This victory gave the British full access to the St. Lawrence River.
Treaty of Paris
On February 10th, 1763 the Treaty of Paris was signed. The Treaty of Paris concluded the French and Indian War and removed the French from North America. It was the beginning of British dominance on the continent.