The French and Indian War Chapter 7, Section 1

European countries were competing for land in North America. The French and British were both trying to take part in the fur trade. The rivalry resulted in warfare.

European Claims in North America before the French and Indian War

The Outbreak of War War was declared 1756. Spain joined the side of the French to protect their silver mines in Mexico.

Treaty of Fontainebleau Secret treaty ~ 1762 The French gave Louisiana to Spain in order to keep it out of the hands of Great Britain. Spain was willing to take Louisiana in order to protect their silver mines in Mexico. France had no claim to Louisiana.

Treaty of Paris of 1763 Ended the French & Indian War Everything west of the Mississippi River was Spanish territory and everything east of the river was British. Spain traded Florida to Britain for the return of Cuba.