French and indian war

Definition

The North American theater of the Seven Years' War (1754-1763) fought between Britain and France, along with their respective Native American allies, for control of territory in North America. Britain's victory gave it control of Canada and lands east of the Mississippi but left it deeply in debt, leading to new taxes on the American colonies.

Examples

  • The Treaty of Paris (1763) ending French territorial claims in mainland North America
  • Britain imposing the Stamp Act and other taxes on colonists to pay war debts
  • George Washington gaining military experience as a young officer in this war
Key Fact

The war lasted from 1754 to 1763 and was part of the global Seven Years' War.

Related Terms

American revolution Colonial economies Colonial settlements Native american societies

Study This Concept

Practice French and Indian War with free review games in these units:

AP US History Unit 3: 1754-1800: Revolution and Republic