French and Indian War

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Battle of the Plains of Abraham

Introduction to the French and Indian War

The French and Indian War (1754–1763) was a major conflict that took place in North America between the British and the French, each supported by various Native American tribes. It was part of a larger global struggle known as the Seven Years’ War. The conflict began as both the British and the French competed for control of the rich Ohio River Valley, a key area for trade and expansion. Tensions quickly turned violent as British colonists, led by a young George Washington, clashed with French forces.

Native American tribes were deeply involved in the conflict, often aligning with the side they believed would best protect their lands and interests. The war’s outcome drastically reshaped the map of North America. With the Treaty of Paris in 1763, France ceded much of its territory to Britain, giving the British control over Canada and lands east of the Mississippi River.

While Britain gained vast new lands, the war left it heavily in debt, leading to increased taxes and new laws for the American colonies—policies that stirred resentment and helped spark the American Revolution just a few years later. The French and Indian War, therefore, was not only a fight for land but also a turning point in American history.

Our Content

	Unit and Curriculum Our French and Indian War unit covers six days and includes numerous lesson plans, Power Point presentations, literacy activities, writing prompts, differentiated articles, interactive maps, online games, and much more!

	French and Indian War Interactive Map This interactive map allows students to click on the map to learn about the various battles and events of the French and Indian War.

	Causes and Effects of the French and Indian Wars The French and Indian War was caused by competition between Britain and France over land and trade in the Ohio River Valley. The war ended with British victory, but it left Britain in debt and led to new taxes on American colonists, which eventually sparked the American Revolution.

	Battles and Events of the French and Indian War The battles of the French and Indian War were fought across North America, with key victories like the British capture of Quebec in 1759 turning the tide of the war. These battles involved both European armies and Native American allies, and they reshaped control of territory on the continent.

	Join, or Die The "Join, or Die" woodcut, created by Benjamin Franklin in 1754, shows a segmented snake representing the American colonies, encouraging unity against common threats. Originally published during the French and Indian War, it later became a powerful symbol of colonial solidarity during the American Revolution.

	French and Indian War Literacy and Comprehension Exercises This section contains online and printable comprehension exercises related to the French and Indian War. These are generally created for students in grades 4-8.

	French and Indian War Fun Stuff This section contains online games, interactives, and fun printables related to the French and Indian War.