French and Indian War Effects Essay Example
French and Indian War Effects Essay Example

French and Indian War Effects Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (903 words)
  • Published: December 1, 2017
  • Type: Case Study
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The French and Indian War had extensive impacts on Britain's political, economic, and ideological relationships with the American colonies, affecting the nation's diverse population, including Native Americans and soldiers. Although some rejoiced in the strengthened connections with England, others were dissatisfied with the financial circumstances. Ultimately, the war brought substantial transformations to the American colonies, with Native Americans often being overlooked.

The war helped the people to understand the true worth of their land, leading to an increased value of their properties as mentioned in "Document B". They were no longer easily deceived and became aware of the importance of real estate, especially after being cheated out of Manhattan Island in the past. They also protested against the immigrants who illegally settled on their land and urged the colonists to take action to prevent any potential vi

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olent conflicts.

According to Document B, the Native Americans demanded the removal of colonists who settled on their lands, leading to potential impacts on Great Britain's view of their newly acquired French territories. Meanwhile, Document A reveals that Great Britain opposed colonists settling in the western lands beyond the Mississippi River. Despite colonists feeling entitled to the land, the British feared further violence from protesting Native Americans and thus refused to allow westward settlement due to difficulty in political organization.

After the war, soldiers were treated differently and Britain had low opinions of the Colonial military. This led to soldiers being denied their liberty, including clothes and liquors, which demonstrated the lack of respect British officers had for Colonials. Even after their service was completed, they were still not allowed to return home, causing them to make an oath

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that they would no longer serve in the area.

It is possible that the British were confident in their success during the Revolutionary War because they underestimated the American military. On the other hand, some sectors of the colonial society wholeheartedly supported Britain and enjoyed their short-lived alliance. A minister from New England expressed his delight, stating that the people of New England can reflect on past events and look forward to a promising future thanks to Britain, which he believes has given them a life to be grateful for (Document E).

According to Document E, it is important to serve and honor Mother for her generosity and protection, which contrasts with the beliefs of soldiers and Native Americans. However, this sentiment did not last long. The French and Indian War, along with the Seven Years War, put Britain in significant debt. Document F notes that revenue was small, leading to heavy taxation of British citizens. They saw this as unjust, as their tax money was going towards American wars and military.

According to Document F, the military needed a significant amount of funding, leading the British to institute mandatory taxation of the colonies. This decision ultimately played a major role in sparking the Revolutionary War. As a result of their debt, Britain began taxing America, but these taxes were initially not very significant and did not garner much notice.

Despite being unpopular, the taxes imposed by various Prime Ministers, such as Grenville and "Champagne Charlie", were tolerated. Grenville attempted to lower British taxes and raise American ones in an effort to boost his popularity, while "Champagne Charlie" aimed to tax Americans without much pushback. Benjamin Franklin and others

strongly opposed the Stamp Act, which caused the most anger out of all the taxes imposed, and demanded its repeal (Document G). Despite opposition to these taxes, Americans did not want to break away from England, but instead called for representation before any taxation.

According to Benjamin Franklin (Document G), it is wise for us to maintain a strong allegiance to the Crown and stay faithful to the Government. However, as opposition to taxes grew among Americans, many became increasingly reckless in their actions. Numerous people were tarred and feathered for showing support or working with these taxes. The Boston Tea Party, in which the Boston Harbor was turned into a giant teapot, was another act of protest aimed at these taxes. In October 1765, the Pennsylvania journal declared that "LIBERTY" was gone forever and that the times were filled with dread, grief, misery, and financial hardship (Document H).

The stamp space printed by the colonists, which facetiously read "this is the proper place to Affix the Stamp", showed their rebellion against taxes. This justified their anger during the Revolutionary War, which was preceded by the French and Indian War.

The formation of the Continental Congress, battles of Lexington and Concord, and Paul Revere's journey all led to crucial turning points in history. One such turning point was George Washington's appointment as a military leader. It is worth pondering whether he would have become the first president had he not been appointed, and how that could have altered history. Another major impact on British-American relations was the French and Indian War. The war taught Native Americans valuable lessons, preventing further westward colonization by colonists. Additionally,

British troops held a negative view of colonial soldiers which caused them to underestimate American military strength.

Although the brief renewal of toughened ties with Britain occurred, it was ultimately destroyed by taxation, leading to the Revolutionary War and the eventual creation of the United States of America. These interrelated events demonstrate how history is interconnected, with the French and Indian War playing a role in this sequence of events.

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