7 Years War - History Levels 1&2, 10/29/13

French and Indian War

France and Britain went to war several times over territory and trade.  The French and Indian War (also known as the 7 Years War) broke out in 1754 when British colonists, led by militia colonel George Washington, tried to prevent the building of French forts in PA.  Fighting spread to Europe in 1756, becoming the first truly global war as battles erupted throughout West Africa and India.  Native Americans were significant participants primarily on the side of the French.

In the end, the Treaty of Paris, signed in 1763, gave Britain control of nearly all of Canada, Florida, and the French areas east of the Mississippi River. The peace treaty also limited French presence in the Caribbean, and India.

The Native Americans were the biggest losers of the 7 Years War. The greatly reduced French presence on the continent meant that the natives could no longer play the French and British against one another to protect themselves from encroaching colonists. 

The Death of General Wolfe
Benjamin West
1770
oil on canvas
National Gallery of Canada
Public Domain

In class activities 10/29/13:

• Assembled a tee-pee then listened to the story of the French & Indian War while inside
• Discussed the difference between the Native American and European understanding of land ownership
• Mapped the various battle locations around the world
• Made tiny bows and arrows
• Discussed the consequences of  English colonists no longer needing the protection of the British against the French 
• Added to our history notebooks
  

Optional Lesson Extension Activities:

• Think of one question you have about the French and Indian war, and see if you can find the answer in this video:  http://education-portal.com/academy/lesson/the-french-and-indian-war-causes-effects-summary.html
• Explore an interactive timeline of the French and Indian War online.  
• Make your own George Washington shadow puppets and act out the battles of the 7 Years War.

Assignment: 

• Read history cards #17 & 18 covering the colonists growing discontent with England
• Practice your timeline!