George Washington and the French and Indian war

What was the French and Indian War? (Basic Definition)

North American phase of the Seven Years’ War (1754–1763). Britain & colonies vs. France & Native American allies over Ohio River Valley control. Mnemonic: “F&I = Fight for Indiana (Ohio Valley)!”

Why did the French and Indian War start? (Key Trigger)

Competing colonial claims in the Ohio Valley led to skirmishes. Escalated into brutal battles, raids, and sieges. Mnemonic: “Ohio = ‘Ouch, Here It Starts’ – first shots in 1754.”

What were early key events in the war? (British Struggles)

British defeats, like 1755 Battle of the Monongahela (Braddock’s rout). Mnemonic: “Monongahela = ‘Mono-Defeat-a’ – early British losses.”

What was a major turning point in the war? (Victory Shift)

1759 British capture of Quebec under James Wolfe. Led to victory. Mnemonic: “Quebec ’59 = Quick Victory – Wolfe howls success!”

How did the French and Indian War end? (Outcome & Impact)

Treaty of Paris (1763): France loses most North America east of Mississippi. Caused British debt → colonial taxes & resentment. Mnemonic: “Paris ’63 = France Flees East – Taxes Trouble Colonies.”

How old was Washington at the start of the war? (Personal Context)

Early 20s (age 21 in 1753), Virginia militia officer. Mnemonic: “GW21 = George Was 21 – Young Gun Ignites War.”

What was Washington’s first mission? (1753 Event)

Sent by Virginia governor to warn French to leave Ohio Country. Heightened tensions. Mnemonic: “1753 Warning = ‘Washington’s Whisper’ – Sparks the Fire.”

What skirmish is seen as the war’s opening shot? (1754 Action)

Jumonville Glen ambush: Washington killed French commander Joseph Coulon de Jumonville (French called it assassination). Mnemonic: “Jumonville = ‘Jump on Villain’ – Washington’s Bold Strike.”

What was Washington’s first defeat? (1754 Battle)

Battle of Fort Necessity: Outnumbered troops surrendered to French. Mnemonic: “Fort Necessity = ‘Necessary Surrender’ – Lesson Learned.”

What heroic role did Washington play in 1755? (Braddock Expedition)

Aide to General Braddock; organized retreat after Monongahela ambush rout. Earned bravery fame. Mnemonic: “Braddock = ‘Bad Luck’ – Washington Saves the Day.”

Why did Washington resign in 1758? (War End for Him)

Frustrated by British oversight & no promotion. Resigned as tide turned for Britain. Honed skills for Revolution. Mnemonic: “1758 Exit = ‘Enough, I’m Out’ – Revolution Prep Complete.”