The British denied the colonists right to do this in order to preserve peace with the Indian tribes. (Proclamation of 1763) Britain starts a policy of permanently stationing troops in the colonies. Most of the Indian tribes of North America sided with the French during the French and Indian War.

This gave Britain control over all lands East of the Mississippi River (except N.O.) This is a major reason for the colonists desire to gain their independence from Britain Britain established the Stamp and Tea Taxes (as well as others)