French and Indian War Overview

Front

What sparked the French and Indian War?

Back

The struggle between France and Britain for control of North America, particularly the Ohio Valley, sparked the French and Indian War.

Front

Why did the French build forts in the Ohio Valley?

Back

To protect the Ohio Valley for trade and expel British traders.

Front

What was the basis of France's North American economy?

Back

Trade with the Native Americans.

Front

Why did British settlers want to settle in the Ohio Valley?

Back

For more farmland and lucrative trade with the Indians.

Front

What was the relationship between American Indians and European settlers?

Back

American Indians had strong trading relationships with both the French and the British, and were dependent on European goods.

Front

What was France's influence in North America tied to?

Back

The fur trade, with trading posts in Canada and around the Great Lakes.

Front

Where did British colonists settle in North America?

Back

Along the Atlantic coast, pushing American Indians further inward.

Front

What role did the Native Americans play in the French and Indian War?

Back

They tipped the balance of power in favor of one of the European empires.

Front

Who was Robert Dinwiddie, and what did he do?

Back

He ordered George Washington to Fort Duquesne to head off the French advance.

Front

What happened at Fort Necessity?

Back

George Washington built a fort and later surrendered to the French.