After the British had taken Quebec City, it was only a matter of time before the French stronghold of Montreal would fall. On September 6, 1760, British forces of nearly 18,000, under the command of Jeffrey Amherst besieged Montreal. Only 2,100 French soldiers were left to defend the city. After three days, they were forced to surrender, and Montreal was in the hands of the British. The siege of Montreal marked the end of French rule in North America. The war officially ended on February 10, 1763, with the signing of the Treaty of Paris. As a result of the war, France gave up nearly all of its territory in North America. In addition, they agreed not to build any military establishments in India, which made England the dominant power there.

Discussion Questions

• Why was Montreal important in the French and Indian War?
• How did the British win the Siege of Montreal so quickly?
• What were the main terms of the Treaty of Paris in 1763?
• How did the end of the war affect France’s power around the world?

Glossary

• Siege: A military operation where forces surround a place to force surrender.
• Jeffrey Amherst: The British general who led the attack on Montreal.
• Treaty of Paris (1763): The agreement that ended the French and Indian War.
• Stronghold: A well-defended place used in war.
• Dominant power: The strongest nation in a region or around the world.