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The Seven Years' War

Decent Essays

The Seven Years’ War, also known as the French and Indian War in the colonies, was the beginning of outward conflict between the British and French over North American colonies. Most Europeans viewed the Indians as a means to get something they wanted; they were pawns during this struggle in North America. During the 18th century, there were many alliances and discord among the Indians and the Europeans. The demise of many alliances was the lack of trust and suspicions of betrayal. The Europeans were a dominating force in the French and Indian War affecting aspects of territory, trade, and government in North America. Since the French landed along St. Lawrence River in Canada, many became traders befriending the Native Americans and living calmly together. In 1756, Britain and France declared war with each other transforming the hostilities in North America into a global conflict. France and England had been enemies for generations and had already fought for power in Europe, America, Asia, and Africa. The British and the French both set their intentions on the Forks of the Ohio because of the popular riverside region. In early stages of the war, the British were appearing catastrophic while the French, hopeful. The British suffered a series of defeats against the French and their broad network of Native American alliances such as the displaced Indians, the Shawnees and the Delawares. At this time, the Iroquois remain neutral. Later under William Pitt, the

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