Why was the French and Indian War fought?
Quick Answer
The French and Indian War, an extension of the Seven Years War in Europe, was fought over land claims. Beginning with a dispute between British and French colonists over the Ohio River Valley, it became a struggle for all the North American territories east of the Mississippi.
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In 1756, because of French incursions into the Ohio River Valley, Great Britain declared war on France. Although England had more colonists in North America, France formed various alliances with Native Americans. In the early stages of the war, the British had a number of setbacks. However, William Pitt, the British prime minister, helped to fund the war effort, hiring Prussians to fight in Europe and the colonists to fight in the New World. In 1758 and 1759, the British won major victories, and the French were forced to leave Canada. Although Spain entered the war on the side of France, it was not able to prevent ultimate British victory.
On Feb. 10, 1763, Great Britain, France and Spain signed the Treaty of Paris, which gave Great Britain all the North American mainland east of the Mississippi, including French Canada and Spanish Florida. France was allowed to keep the two Caribbean islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe and the islands of Miquelon and San Pierre in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The Spanish regained Cuba from the British and received New Orleans and the rest of Louisiana from the French.
Learn more about US HistoryRelated Questions
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Q:
Where did the French and Indian War take place?
A: The French and Indian War took place in many locations, which included places in Europe, India and North America. The war began in 1754 and officially ende... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Who fought in the French and Indian War?
A: The two main players in the French and Indian War were Great Britain and France, each of which owned significant portions of land in the New World. During ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Which country gained all land east of the Mississippi River, including Canada, after the French and Indian War?
A: Great Britain received the vast majority of land east of the Mississippi River, including Canada, after the end of the French and Indian War. The city of N... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Who won the Seven Years' War?
A: The Seven Years' War, also known as the French and Indian War in the United States, was won by the British, Prussians and their allies. The war pitted Euro... Full Answer >Filed Under:
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