HIST 231 - George Washington and the French and Indian War's Impact

This essay examines George Washington's involvement in the French and Indian War (1754-1763), focusing on his early military experiences and their significance. It details his ultimatum to the French, his role in sparking the war, and his participation in key battles, including the defeat alongside General Braddock. The essay further explores how the war's outcome, particularly Britain's increased debt and subsequent taxation of the colonies, set the stage for the American Revolution. It also highlights the French collaboration with the British colonies after their loss, ultimately contributing to America's independence. Desklib offers this and other solved assignments to aid students in their studies.

History of the United States
University of Cumberlands HIST 231
History of the United States Practice Essay
Role of George Washington in the French and Indian War
The French and Indian war took place between 1754 and 1763. The war came
about as a result of the need for increased annexation of North America by the British
and French colonialists. The war was triggered by the contention over the possession of
Ohio River Valley. George Washington Issued an ultimatum to the French in which the
French replied that their presence there could not be contested. He published an
account of his experience in Ohio thereby informing the Britons and Americans of
increasing French Dominance in the area.
As a result of the threatening French dominance, Ohio's governor called for
Washington's military expedition in the area whose key role was to ensure those who
resisted the presence of the Britons were killed. The French sent their military men in
retaliation, and their camp was attacked by Washington's Militia men, thereby sparking
off the war. However, on 1st July, 1754 French gathered their troops which ultimately
outnumbered Washington's troops thereby leading to Washington's surrender (Alfred,
2004). In 1755, General Edward Braddock led his troop to attack the annexed French
territory, Fort Duquesne, in the company of George Washington but they were defeated,
and Edward Braddock succumbed to the war injuries. However, the war continued till
1763 with the signing of the Treaty of Paris and Britain winning over its French rival.

How the War's Outcome Set the Stage for The American Revolution
The French and Indian War played a significant role in catalyzing the American
Revolution. Britain had become indebted as result of the war, and their Parliament
resorted to imposing taxes on the colonists. There was discontentment among the
colonists who consequently started initiating a breakaway from Britain. The war had
weakened Britain's economy, therefore, attempts to boycott trade with Britain worked
efficiently for the colonists (Anderson, 2000). Further, given French loss during the
French and Indian War, French collaborated with the British colonies to reduce British
influence over its colonies and the ultimate independence of America.
References
Alfred, A. C. (2004). The French and Indian War. Westport Conn: Greenwood Press.
Anderson, F. (2000). Crucible of War: The seven Years’War and the Fate of Empire in
British North-America, 1754-1766. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.