September+Journals

Colonial Life and the French and Indian War, //The American Journey,// Chapters 4-6, //The War That Made America: A Short History of the French and Indian War,// September Journal Entries: =Barry Johnson, Mt. Olive Elementary School= American Journey, Chapters 4-6 The success of the Revolution gave Americans the opportunity to give legal form to their ideals as expressed in the Declaration of Independence, and to remedy some of their grievances through state constitutions. This is relevant to me in the discussion of Alabama History. As early as May 10, 1776, Congress had passed a resolution advising the colonies to form new governments "such as shall best conduce to the happiness and safety of their constituents." Some of them had already done so, and within a year after the Declaration of Independence, all but three had drawn up constitutions. The new constitutions showed the impact of democratic ideas. None made any drastic break with the past, since all were built on the solid foundation of colonial experience and English practice. But each was also animated by the spirit of republicanism, an ideal that had long been praised by Enlightenment philosophers. Naturally, the first objective of the framers of the state constitutions was to secure those "unalienable rights" whose violation had caused the former colonies to repudiate their connection with Britain. Thus, each constitution began with a declaration or bill of rights. Virginia's, which served as a model for all the others, included a declaration of principles, such as popular sovereignty, rotation in office, freedom of elections and an enumeration of fundamental liberties: moderate bail and humane punishment, speedy trial by jury, freedom of the press and of conscience, and the right of the majority to reform or alter the government. Other states enlarged the list of liberties to guarantee freedom of speech, of assembly and of petition, and frequently included such provisions as the right to bear arms, to a writ of //habeas corpus//, to inviolability of domicile and to equal protection under the law. Moreover, all the constitutions paid allegiance to the three-branch structure of government -- executive, legislative and judiciary -- each checked and balanced by the others. This includes Alabama as well, although not as many freedoms were written into Alabama’s constitution. Pennsylvania's constitution was the most radical. In that state, Philadelphia artisans, Scots-Irish frontiersmen and German-speaking farmers had taken control. The provincial congress adopted a constitution that permitted every male taxpayer and his sons to vote, required rotation in office (no one could serve as a representative more than four years out of every seven) and set up a single-chamber legislature.

The War That Made America By Fred Anderson The French and Indian War is the American name for their part in a conflict that stretched around the globe and was known as the Seven Years War. In `The War That Made America', Anderson sticks to the history of the war as it played out in North America, with only a nod to the war as fought in the West Indies, Europe, Asia, and the Philippines. Mr. Anderson brings to this short history of the war a perspective which has not always been acknowledged - that it was not a conflict between two imperial powers - Britain and France, but between three - Britain, France, and the Iroquois Confederation. Not only does he restore the essential details of the pivotal role that the Five Nations of the Iroquois played in the war, but he shows how the causes of the war lay as much in the struggle of the western tribes of Delaware, Shawnee, and Mingo attempting to gain their independence from the Iroquois as it did in the French and English competition over the lands of the Ohio River Valley. He eloquently handles these complex details by sorting them out and making them accessible to the general reader. Mr. Anderson is that rare scholar who possesses a novelist's way with words, and his short history of this war is as entertaining and easy to read as it is informative. He moves the story along briskly, never getting too bogged down in details, but communicating all the important facts necessary for a basic understanding of the war. His book is a painless introduction for anyone who is attempting to gain a basic understanding of this fascinating and important history.

=**Clara N. Billups, Brighton Middle School**=

This book is a good history lesson on the influences that shaped America. It reflects on the beginning of the hatred toward Native Americans and how it started, what sides the Indians chose and why they chose them. It also demonstrates how the Indians influenced the outcome of the battles between the French and English also is discussed. The author thoroughly explains what was at stake for the parties involved and the consequences for nations and leaders, with particular emphasis on the contributions of George Washington and how the expulsion of the French from North America and the imperial actions of the British crown created the events and climate that brought on the American Revolution. Also, we learn a little bit about a young George Washington, how his career started and how this war helped shape his mental perseverance, which was needed during the revolution.

=**Brenda Hollis, Bagley Jr. High School**=

Through reading this book I could see the importance of the French and Indian War and how it was in changing and shaping the colonists’ attitudes from pride and compliance to resentment and open hostility. A great example of this is the infamous Stamp Act, where the colonists believed that “to submit to taxation without representation was to accept an essentially limitless British authority over their lives and estate.” Taxation itself, and grievances such as the forced enlistment of soldiers, became not the main reason for the American Revolution, but more like the foundation for the argument to defy the increasing level of tyranny that Americans felt was being imposed upon them from across the sea. If we give in to taxation, in other words, there will be no end to further demands that Britain imposes on young patriots, so they must take a stand now. This was an easy way to relate the unit to my students and very helpful hook. …...The French and Indian War helped give George Washington the background he needed to lead the country to eventual victory in the Revolutionary War; without us ever having been involved in it, it’s difficult to imagine whether we’d have ever had a Revolutionary War at all and where would we be today? My students saw this as the pieces of a puzzle, without each piece we would not be complete. To understand what led up to the American Revolutionary War and shaped our consciousness as an independent nation of states.

=**Sylvea Hollis, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute**= __The American Journey (Ch. 4-6) & the War that Made America__

__Chapter Summary__

The British set up a system for regulating trade amongst their colonies in response to the stiff competition between France, the Netherlands, and themselves. The Parliament established four types mercantilist regulations: (1) the Navigation Act of 1651, stated that all trade with the British Colonies had to take place with vessels which were at least colonial or British and their crew had to be either colonial or British as well (2) European goods had to go through England before leaving for the colonies, (3 &4) Parliament subsidized the prices of certain types of goods to ensure that England’s prices were cheaper than competitors. These types of regulations isolated the colonists and created a system which kept them bound to their crown. From the colonists’ perspective, their trade consisted mostly of staple crops which were grown and harvested from slave labor. Their business of exporting was not, however, as consistent as their business of importing and as a result the American colonists found themselves in a great deal of debt to the England.

In spite of their somewhat isolated environment, many colonists were still able to live somewhat comfortably in America’s and the colony began developing its own intellectual life. The cities of Philadelphia, New York, Charleston, and Boston were thriving really beginning to thrive during the 1770s. Many urban dwellers turned their hands at crafts. Even city women made use economic opportunities. Women would often work on such crafts if they were widows or did not have access to their family purse.

__Book Summary/Analysis__

The war for American Independence served as the continuation of a process which started long before the first fire of battle. The early colonial ideals gave way to more independent nation state-type speech.

__Classroom Implementation (Civil Rights Outreach Programming)__ -The Anglo-American Transatlantic Commerce map listed on page 85 of T//he American Journey// (TAJ) Economics, Human Rights, Race -Mahogany Clothespress on page 89 of TAJ Class, Economics, Craft -Boston Massacre Engraving, by Paul Revere, page 121 of TAJ Civil Rights (rights of “citizens vs. colonists), Race (Crispus Attucks), Press

=**Jerme Kirk, Hillview Elementary School**=

//“The War That Made America: A Short History of the French and Indian War”// //By: Fred Anderson// The French and Indian War —the North American phase of a far larger conflagration, the Seven Year War—remains one of the most important, and yet misunderstood, episodes in American history. Fred Anderson takes readers on a remarkable journey through the vast conflict that occurred, between 1755 and 1763. The journey highlights the destruction of the French Empire in North America, the overturning of the balance of power on two continents, an undermining of the ability of Indian nations to determine their destinies, and the beginning of the "long fuse" of the American Revolution. Beautifully illustrated and recounted by an expert storyteller, //The War That Made America// is require reading for anyone interested in the ways in which war has shaped the history of America and its people. //Fred Anderson// recounts show how the conflict encouraged colonials "to conceive of themselves as equal partners in the [British] empire," a concept that Britain did not share and that led to postwar strife and revolution. In a departure from earlier accounts, Anderson gives unprecedented coverage to the role of Native Americans in the struggle and demonstrates how the war paved the way for the American government's eventual "destruction or subjugation of native societies." Anderson combines exhaustive research and an accessible prose style in a volume that should help rescue the French and Indian War from historical obscurity. This shows that "even the most complete victories can sow the seeds of reversal and defeat for victors dazzled by success to remember that they are, in fact, only human." Anderson, a leading authority on the conflict better known as the French and Indian War, depicts the clash of three empires: the French, the English and the Iroquois. So long as the Iroquois were able to control the Ohio River Valley and keep English settlers and soldiers from moving about in number there, the French to the north were content to keep out, too. A rebellion of Iroquois subjects created a power vacuum soon filled by those very English. The French crown reacted by establishing forts near what is now Pittsburgh. An officer of the Virginia militia, George Washington, took a reconnaissance force to see the events in the area. A brief firefight occurred which resulted in the captured of a French ensign who informed him that British forces would have to "evacuate the lands of the king of France, or suffer the consequences."

No sooner had the French officer spoken than a Mingo ally of Washington's bashed his brains in with a tomahawk, providing Louis XV "all the justification he would ever need to declare war on Great Britain." The 1750s saw a vicious war of massacre and ambush, its symbolic high point fought at Montreal when both the English and French commanders were mortally wounded within minutes of each other. The French defeat cleared the way for the English conquest of Canada. This defeat also gave expansion-minded colonists, Washington the notion that they could take care of themselves without help from the mother country. This idea would be soon tested. With luck, Anderson's book will awaken interest in a critically important period in colonial history. The time period is about as familiar, for most, now as the Peloponnesian War. The American Journey Chapter 4 through 6

Chapter 4 Convergence and Conflict: George Washington, a colonial leader was ordered to suit in 1763 in the war against the British. It seemed to be more prosperous to ensure a life in the colonies which in turn gave great promise and patriotic devotion.

Chapter 5 The Imperial Breakdown: Americans whose political ideology had already made them nervous of governmental power, believed that they were the victims of a conspiracy in London and deprived of their liberty. Moving imperceptibly from one stage to the next, American grew conscious of their common interests and their differences from the English. They became aware, as Benjamin Franklin would later write, of the need to break through the bounds, in which a dependent people had been accustomed to think, and act so that they might properly comprehend the character in which they had assumed.

Chapter 6 the War for Independence: Despite the devastation and divisiveness of the war, many people in Europe and the United States were convinced that it represented something momentous. American, indeed, had fired a shot heard round the world. Lead by George Washington “He urged those who had fought with him to maintain their “Strong attachment to the union” and “prove themselves not less virtuous and useful as citizens, than they have been preserving and victorious as soldiers.” I would have to say “The War for Independence” enlightened a new beginning for a new country in which we govern ourselves. This has resulted in the creation of never ending opportunity for all.

__“The War That Made__ __America____”__ By Fred Anderson

Summary Written By //Linda W. Dumas//

The French and Indian War was the result of four wars that were fought. The war is also referred to as the Seven Years’ War. This war began in 1754 and ended at 1763. This war was fought between the American colonists, Spain and its colonies. George Washington received recognition for his military service rendered during the war. His main purpose was to help strengthen Washington’s relationship with the British Empire. The Treaty of Paris which was gets credit for bringing the war to its end on February 10, 1763. As a result of the treaty France was able to reclaim the islands in the West Indies. That was very important to France because they saw a way to continue their economic wealth from sugar. The French was now defeated and had won absolutely no victories. The colonists we very excited to win the war because they felt that as a result of Britain’s victory they thought their lives would be changed for the better. They were hoping to benefit and prosper even more in the days ahead under British rule. The war resulted in France lost the rest of its North American empire with the exception of New Orleans. Britain now owned all territory that lie east of the Mississippi River. Finally, the trade network would now flourish and the colonists, as well as Great Britain stood to make huge profits in revenue. Most of the goods shipped to the colonies were being imported from Great Britain. Britain now had control of French Canada. As a result of the war, there were several problems: economically, politically and socially. The war had drained Britain’s funds and the monarchy taxed the colonists in order to reduce their debt. The colonists became very angry. The high taxation put on the colonists started another conflict that became known as the American Revolutionary War. This would be an ideal way to introduce the American Revolution the students.

April Lufkin Miller Shades Valley/JCIB High School August 23, 2007

//The American Journey//
By Goldfield, et al.

//The American Journey// by David Goldfield, Carl Abbott, Virginia Anderson, Jo Ann Arsinger, Peter Arisnger, William Barney and Robert Weir seems to be a reliable text. It has a readable writing style and plenty of user-friendly graphics, as well as convenient review guides. Chapters 4 – 6 deal with colonial America, specifically the 100 years preceding the independence of the country. Unlike Demos’ //A Little Commonwealth//, //American Journey// spends time in the various regions of colonial America. Goldfield, et al. provides an easy-to-read discourse on this formative period. While the information is the standard high school fare, the graphics are not just those run-of-the-mill visuals which seem to fill most other senior high history textbooks. The review resources are nicely arranged and helpful – whether the quick review boxes scattered throughout the chapter or the “Where to Learn More” sections at the chapters’ end offering a mix of information and web resources. But the high points are arguably the primary source documents which open each chapter. These help to bring the historical era and its figures to life. Learning that George Washington gave his London tailor permission to find a man of “six feet high...and slender” in order to construct a suit for Washington is both humorous and telling. This storytelling helps to grab the reader’s attention and keep it for the entire chapter, often a substantial goal for a high school history book.

Sarah Cooley Irondale Community School

Convergence and Conflict

The colonies of British America continued to expand and flourish throughout the 1600s and 1700s. The growing population and demand for more products from England tied the colonies to the prosperous European country, creating a network of mutual cooperation and success.

Transatlantic trade competitors such as Spain, France, and the Netherlands viewed the success of both England and it’s colonies as a threat. In order to ensure that England’s treasury would continue to gain wealth, British Parliament created the system of mercantilism, which placed certain regulations on overseas trade. This economic system worked well for the colonies and Britain because nearly all other countries involved in overseas trade with America were required to go through England first.

Colonial cities were thriving, and many were located along busy seaports. The gap between the affluent and underprivileged citizens in the colonies gradually widened. Many colonists, especially the elite, began to imitate the English gentry and continually imported the finest goods and products from England to showcase their wealth and social status. “The more America resembled Britain, many colonists assumed the more stable and prosperous it would be.”

The culture of colonial society began to transform during the period known as the Age of Enlightenment. It was during the Age of Enlightenment that Benjamin Franklin was able to prove his abilities as an influential scientist with his experiments using electricity. This movement grew from an interest in the sciences, and as a result, many of the colonists adopted new religious ideas, using scientific ideals to guide their decisions.

Spain, France, and England began to move westward throughout North America. In doing so, France established trading posts and so-called alliances with the Native American tribes located around the posts. Not long after, the English attempted to limit the expansion of French trade and influence. This was a result of paranoia among each of the settling countries, and it caused many to Native American loyalties. What followed was an eruption of four wars: King William’s War, Queen Anne’s War, King George’s War, and the French and Indian War.

The French and Indian War dragged on for seven years, resulting in the deaths of many innocent immigrants. Native Americans turned on their French allies, and took their heads as trophies. Land and trade spurred the battle onward. It was with the conclusion of the French and Indian War that France lost it’s land in North America and England and Spain regained control. “Never before had Americans felt more pride in being British.”

Sarah Cooley Irondale Community School

The War for Independence

It wasn’t long after the outrage over the Intolerable Acts and the shock of the Boston Massacre that General Thomas Gage became the new governor of Massachusetts. Under his leadership, he disassembled the general court and legislature. Gage was unaware that the colonists were preparing for an upcoming attack by gathering weapons and supplies, as well as forming a group called the “minute men,” soldiers who would be ready for battle in just a minute’s notice. Not only were tensions high between the colonists and Britain, but also between the Whigs and the Tories (Whigs: Americans who desired liberty; and Tories: those who remained loyal to the British.)

The first battles of the War for Independence took place in the small towns of Lexington and Concord. General Gage was given orders to attack the anti-British Whigs in Massachusetts, and on the night of April 18, 1775, Gage assembled a small army to march to Lexington and Concord to capture Samuel Adams and John Hancock, as well as to destroy any war materials the rebels had stockpiled. It was Paul Revere who saw Gage’s army coming, and it was on this night that he took his famous ride. The next morning the opposing sides met face to face on Lexington Green. No one knew who had fired the first shot that morning, but as Ralph Waldo Emerson said, it was the shot “heard round the world.”

The Continental Army formed under the leadership of George Washington. Under Washington’s command, the army was victorious, even after suffering through such hardships as the winter at Valley Forge. Many believed the war was won when the French joined in the war effort on the American side. After a series of battles with victories and losses on both sides, the British finally surrendered at the Battle of Yorktown. The Peace of Paris was signed to conclude the war, and Britain acknowledged the United States as “free, sovereign, and independent.”

Sarah Cooley Irondale Community School

Imperial Breakdown

Celebration of victory spread throughout the colonies in the period following the French and Indian War. The colonists were proud to be part of Britain, and they felt secure knowing they were part of a powerful empire. However, not long after the celebrations in the colonies, Britain realized it was faced with a large national debt, and decided to collect—from the colonies.

Britain was overwhelmed with problems after the war ended. Not only was the country in debt, but it was also forced to deal with Americans who displayed illegal actions during the war, issues with smuggling, and more importantly, the threat of France wanting revenge. To keep the peace within new lands and territories, and to also protect the old colonies, Britain stationed militia in America at all times. In addition, Britain passed The Proclamation of 1763, restricting settlement of the colonists to the eastern side of the Appalachian Mountains. Soon after the proclamation, parliament enforced the Quartering Acts, requiring colonists to provide necessary supplies as well as shelter for the troops stationed throughout the land.

Still faced with issue of debt, parliament issued it’s first set of taxes, known as the Sugar and Stamp Acts, in order to raise revenue and restrict trade within the colonies. Americans were outraged with the passing of the Stamp Act, feeling as though Britain had forgotten how the colonies had fought for them during the French and Indian War. Furthermore, they believed that Parliament did not have the right to tax Americans when they did not have representation in Parliament.

The resentment that ensued from the role of government and it’s right to tax created a new view called country ideology. The principles behind this view “held that government power, no matter how necessary or to whom entrusted, is inherently aggressive and expansive.” It was the ideas behind country ideology that eventually inspired colonists during the American Revolution.

Colonists reacted to the Sugar and Stamp Acts with the nonimportation movement, requiring that Americans boycott all goods imported from Britain. In addition to the movement, other colonists joined the Sons of Liberty, a group of strong-willed and somewhat destructive protestors. The colonies even sent representatives to the Stamp Act Congress. This group of representatives created the Declaration of Rights and Grievances, which formally requested that the Stamp and Sugar Acts be repealed. The Stamp Act Congress was successful in their efforts.

Although the colonists desire for liberty was strengthened throughout the protests, it wasn’t until after the Townshend Acts that they began to feel united toward a common purpose. The Americans were relentless in the boycotts of British imports, and on March 5, 1770, Britain proposed repealing many of the Townshend Acts in order to regain funds lost during the boycotts. March 5 also happened to be the day of the Boston Massacre, a day in which paranoid British soldiers fired upon an angry crowd of civilians. Not long afterward, the Sons of Liberty carried out the Boston Tea Party, and the final straw occurred when a series of acts dubbed as the Intolerable Acts sparked the First Continental Congress. It was with the meeting of the First Continental Congress that the colonists decided to take action. The road to the American Revolution was underway.

The American Journey (Chapters 4-6)

The chapters following the French and Indian War and through the American Revolution will allow me to pull more information into lessons in order to complete the entire picture for my students. Instead, I will be able to share how the war affected everyone during that time, not just how it affected Alabamians. Using the TCI approach, I will have my students participate in the American Revolution “Tug of War,” as well as mapping the important battles in each war.

Jessica Powell, Erwin Elementary

The American Journey Chapters 4-6 Under the assumption that colonial leaders such as George Washington were born in England and later traveled to the North American colonies, I was surprised to learn that he had never been to England. I also found it interesting that many colonists did not think goods and services provided in the colonies were as good as products from England. Washington would rather send correspondence to a tailor in England regarding measurements for clothing, than to allow a fellow colonist to make his clothes. Colonists, such as, Washington strived to live the life of the elite English hopeful in the idea of prosperity, representation, and protection of the crown. These ideals would soon change with the realization that the colonists were not treated as English equals. As the Americans were becoming more democratic and larger portions of the population were able to participate in government, the British began to fear rejection of its control over the colonies. The colonists were willing to pay taxes, and anything else the crown required, for they were loyal British subjects, but they would not stand for unreasonable demands with no say in the management of their colonies. As the British tried to reign in the colonies, they only further alienated them, thus propelling the colonies to become more unified. How amazing it is that thirteen little colonies could declare independence from the royal crown, defeat them, and grow into one of the strongest and most recognizable countries in the world.

A Little Commonwealth John Demos’ novel provided the true, realistic story of the pilgrims at Plymouth Colony. The use of primary documents focuses the reader to a true day in the life of a pilgrim at Plymouth Colony.

Lesson Plan Ideas A Little Commonwealth- after discussing true life, daily activities, and roles and responsibilities of each member of the colony- students can write a journal entry as a specific person in the colony- role play- create a newspaper

Colonial Williamsburg- view and explore website [|www.colonialwilliamsburg.com] for electronic field trip Charleston Historical Society- [|www.cr.nps.gov/nr/travel/charleston] maps, historical buildings Philadelphia Historic Mile- [|www.ushistory.org/tour/index.html] virtual tour of landmarks

Incorporate websites for experiential exercises.

Staci Ragland Hueytown Elementary School An American Journey Chapter 4 through 6 Chapter 4 The competition for transatlantic trade was viscous. Many laws were passed to regulate trade. The majority of the goods were imported from Great Britain. This was only one area of competition between the colonies and Great Britain. Many colonists felt they were better off to model themselves after Britain. However, they still felt inferior in comparison.

Chapter 5 The English were less democratic and less diverse than the Americans. They did however, take action to protect the colonies, deal with new territories and maintain peace with the Indians. Taxes were the subject of many new Acts. Tensions rose about these and many other issues the colonists deemed unfair.

Chapter 6 The Revolutionary War was a result of all of the disapproval of taxes and other issues. On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved. American troops paled in comparison to British troops in the area of training and organization. The war impacted every aspect of society. Women’s roles changed dramatically. Many lost the men in their lives and were forced into different roles. Jeremy Campbell Clay Chalkville High School //The American Journey// Chapters 4-6

Originally, the British government established the thirteen colonies as a business venture guided solely by the economic principle of mercantilism. The colonies were supposed to supply raw materials for Great Britain as well as markets for finished goods. While this business relationship was mutually beneficial for quite a while, European competition and rivalries caused Great Britain to tighten the reigns on their colonies, limiting colonial freedoms. Chapters 4-6 of //The American Journey// describes the breakdown of the British and colonial relationship. Initially, most American colonists thought of themselves as essentially British. In fact, most New England urban areas developed along similar lines to those of major English cities. However, as time passed, the colonists started developing a unique culture that was all their own. The Great Awakening in the colonies had a profound effect on this. The increasing amount of religious groups encouraged colonists to come to their own conclusions about which denomination to follow. This mentality spilled over into colonial political life—rather than blindly following an authoritarian government, colonists began thinking for themselves. As the text points out, due to the nature of the relationship between Great Britain and its colonies, the Americans became accustomed to actual representation rather than virtual representation—government officials acted on behalf of local interest instead of national interests—a strikingly different form from that of Great Britain. This escalating amount of control that Great Britain began exerting over the colonies, created a tumultuous relationship that could not endure.

Robert M. Adams Clay Chalkville High School Assigned Reading: The American Journey, Chapters 4 – 6 The assigned reading from the American journey traced the development of the British Empire as it established its colonies in North America. Chapter Three, “Convergence and Conflict”, traces the development of the economic aspect of the English Colonies in America, also referred to as mercantilism. It also discusses in detail the collective, “Navigation Acts” passed by England in hopes of regulating their valuable assets in America. Ironically, the colonies tended to accept most of the Acts based on the salutary neglect of the mother country and the fact that most Americans stilled viewed themselves as “British”. In addition, the colonies were benefiting from trade and becoming wealthy as well. The Age of Enlightenment, the rise of a new breed of “upper class” in the colonies, the influences of the Great Awakening and the repeated attempts by England to increase its control of the colonies, especially after the French and Indian War, forced many in America to look toward England with suspicion and condemnation. No longer did colonists accept the theory of “virtual representation” so cherished in England. Chapter Five, “Imperial Breakdown”, traces the quickly deteriorating relationship between an overzealous England and a stubborn America. The Proclamation of 1763, the Sugar Act, Stamp Act, Tea Act, Townshend Acts were all viewed by Americans as direct violations of English Common Law. Theoretically, the English underestimated the resolve of the colonies, even in light of the Stamp Act Congress, the First and Second Continental Congresses, and various political organizations. Tensions would reach the boiling point following Boston Tea Party and the subsequent Coercive / Intolerable Acts of 1773. Chapter Six discusses the actual outbreak of war between the British and the Americans. It discusses the American response to Lexington and Concord, the British objectives and strengths and contrasts them with those in America. The text chronologically details the military history as well as the social and political history that started out ominously for the Americas but would eventually lead arguably one of the most stunning of victories by the Americans over the British.

April Smith Coffey Irondale Middle School Teaching American History Grant

//The American Journey//, Chapters 4 through 6, discusses colonization through the American Revolution. //The American Journey// is an excellent source for both teachers and students, as it contains numerous primary sources and interesting maps and illustrations. Furthermore, the emphasis placed on higher-order thinking, such as cause and effect relationships, would be greatly beneficial for students in understanding history as more than isolated dates and events. Chapter 4 speaks of the British colonies and life in these colonies, addressing politics as well as the lives of citizens in the colonies. However, as is typical in textbooks, rather than focusing on average citizens, whose lives are more difficult to uncover, //The American Journey// places more attention on the elite colonists. The great benefit to students provided by this chapter is the emphasis it places on how events in Britain, like the Glorious Revolution, impacted colonists. Additionally, //The American Journey// focuses on other events that are often only mentioned in passing in terms of their influence on the colonies such as King William’s and Queen Anne’s War. Chapter 5 discusses events after 1763 that led to growing isolation between the British colonies and the British government. Taxation and events such as the Boston Tea Party and Boston Massacre are portrayed as direct causes of the Continental Congress. Chapter 6 is particularly interesting in its attempts to assess the mindset of colonists leading to the Declaration of Independence. Additionally, //The American Journey// discusses often unmentioned groups in the Revolutionary War, such as women and African-Americans. //The American Journey// could be easily incorporated into American history lesson plans due to its extremely considerate text, primary sources, illustrations, maps, and helpful overviews.

Sabrina Porrill Bragg Middle School //__The American Journey__// Summary Chapters 4-6

Chapter 4: //Convergence and Conflict// (1660’s-1763) begins by discussing the quick population and economic growth of the American Colonies in the 1700’s. England’s policy of mercantilism spurred this growth and the growth of a wealthy class in the colonies that tried its best to emulate the English aristocracy in dress, culture and deed. The Age of Enlightenment and the Great Awakening also influenced these puritanical colonists. After years of neglect, England’s Parliament tried to exercise governance over the colonies in the mid 1700’s with much difficulty and resistance by the standing colonial governments. “No taxation without representation” was the colonial cry while “virtual representation” was the British reply. The expanding boundaries of the English colonies as well as Spain and France’s North American lands was leading to rising tensions between these European powers that would lead to the French and Indian War. With England’s victory, they now claimed all land east of the Mississippi River. Chapter 5: //Imperial Breakdown// (1763-1774) begins by listing many missteps Britain took immediately following the French and Indian War including the Proclamation Line of 1763, the Quartering Acts, the Sugar Act and Stamp Act. All were viewed by colonists as a slap in the face after their perceived loyal support of the Crown throughout the war. Tensions rose slowly over the next few years to reach a boiling point with the Townshend Duty Act, the Boston Tea Party, the Boston Massacre and finally the Coercive Acts. The colonial response to the Intolerable Acts, as they became known, was the First Continental Congress and the path toward revolution was being laid. Chapter 6//: The War for// //Independence// (1774-1783) begins with a look at the days before the Battles of Lexington and Concord and the “shots heard round the world”. The Second Continental Congress convenes, drafts the Olive Branch Petition, names George Washington as the commander of the Revolutionary Army and writes the Declaration of Independence. The early stages of the war were successful for the Americans with wins at Fort Ticonderoga, Great Bridge and Moore’s Creek Bridge. The middle of the war was successful for the British with victories in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia and Savanna. The last stage of the war brought about victory for the Americans with aid from the French and a crucial win at Yorktown. The chapter ends with a discussion of the terms of the Peace of Paris of 1783 and how this war and the following time of peace effected soldiers, women, African-Americans and Native Americans.

Ryan Posey Clay Chalkville High School

“The American Journey”-Chapters 4-6

Teaching American History Grant

Chapters 4 through 6 in “The American Journey” textbook deal with the events leading up to and the establishment of The United States. These chapters cover the major events, individuals and ideas that helped develop the situation that eventually lead to American independence. These chapters offer interesting stories and descriptions as well as maps and other images that help to present the information in a clear and logical manner. This textbook does an excellent job with this section, but like most textbooks focuses on some areas and neglects others. Overall the text does provide good information and ideas that can be utilized in American History classrooms. Chapter 4 covers the time period from the 1660’s to 1763. This chapter discusses the establishment of the English colonies including their political and trading relationship with their mother country. The chapter discusses the nature of the colonies as money making venture for England and how they exploited this relationship. The chapter discusses the nature of the control exhibited by England over the colonies and describes ways that this began to change during this time. It describes events like the religious revival known as the Great Awakening and how it helped to change people’s ideas on the role of government. Chapter 4 also discusses the conflicts that continued to separate the colonies from England. This includes the discussion of Queen Ann’s War and the French and Indian War. The chapter provides the background for these events and describes the outcomes. The book does provide a good deal of information on the causes of the French and Indian War, but like most American History textbooks it does not dedicate enough time to discussing the enormous ramifications of this conflict. However it does relate how this war created new problems that help to further separate the colonist from their former opinions towards loyalty to the throne. Chapter 5 discusses the problems that arose following the French and Indian War and the //Treaty// of //Paris////.// This includes the large debt that the British Empire was facing and the various taxes they imposed to pay for this debt. The chapter discusses the tightening of British control in the colonies and the many elements that began to create a great deal of tension. The British said that the French and Indian War had been fought to protect the colonist’s interests and therefore it was the colonists that should pay the debt of the war. At this point the British begin to impose many taxes and or duties on almost everything most famously tea and sugar. These taxes, along with other seemingly unreasonable acts on the behalf of the British Government, begin to create serious tension and division within the colonies. One of the colonist’s biggest grievances with the taxation was the lack of representation in Britain. By this point the colonial system of town and city government involved direct representation and the many could not accept that these types of often time’s economically harmful actions would be taken without any form of colonial representation. The chapter also discusses colonial resistance and opposition to these acts. This includes the various boycotts that were carried out against British goods. This chapter also discusses the responses to the Boston Massacre and the events of the Boston Tea Party. The final part of the chapter leads up to the American Revolution by discussing the first meeting of the Continental Congress and the establishment of Sons of Liberty. By the end of Chapter 5 the stage has been set and the divisions between patriots and loyalists have been established. Chapter 6 deals with the events of the American Revolution. The chapter discusses the militarization by the colonists and the forming of the minutemen. The chapter goes on to discuss the Battles of Lexington and Concord and the early stages of the war. This includes the appointment of George Washington as commander of the colonial army. The chapter discusses the nature of both sides fighting force and depicts the heavy odds that the colonist faced in such a formidable opponent. Chapter 6 also discusses the attempt to make piece through the //Olive Branch Petition// and its rejection by King George. It then discusses the writing of //The Declaration of Independence// and the various inspirations that helped develop its content. The chapter goes on to discuss the nature of battle and the outcomes of the more significant ones. Later in the chapter the assistance given to the colonies by the French is discussed as well as other areas that were important in contributing to the colonial victory. The chapter concludes by discussing the details of the colonial victory and the drastic impact it had on people’s lives in the newly formed United States. I have given a brief overview of chapters 4-6. This textbook could be used to improve upon pre-existing or newly formed lesson plans. The chapters give great detail on events and individuals that played a pivotal role in the formation of The United States. Also the text could be used in lessons for its images and internet information that it provides. Almost every textbook offers a slightly different perspective on events and this one undoubtedly provides key information and can be used for additional class readings. Sommer Brown Clay-Chalkville High School __The War that Made America: A Short History of the French and Indian War__ Fred Anderson author This book is at first glance a chronicle of the various battles of the French and Indian War. Anderson does respectable job of telling us how the battles were fought and the various tactics used. Anderson explains in vivid detail of the cruel and barbaric methods used by the Iroquois and the guerilla warfare employed by the French versus the traditional European warfare practiced by the English. The British had the firepower necessary to use traditional tactics. The French, lacking this necessary firepower, had to employ strike and maneuver tactics. George Washington was a colonel in the British forces and learned this lesson well. This was the same strategy he employed many times against the British in the war for independence. Anderson points out that the war doubled the British national debt to £146,000,000. George Grenville, the British Lord of the Treasury, decided the colonists should be responsible for a portion of this debt. This was the seed of the taxation that would eventually give the colonists reason to fight for independence. This is an excellent account of what was going on in American in the mid 1700s. It gives us insight into the causes of the American Revolution. __“The War That Made__ __America____”__ By Fred Anderson

Summary Written By //Linda W. Dumas//

The French and Indian War was the result of four wars that were fought. The war is also referred to as the Seven Years’ War. This war began in 1754 and ended at 1763. This war was fought between the American colonists, Spain and its colonies. George Washington received recognition for his military service rendered during the war. His main purpose was to help strengthen Washington’s relationship with the British Empire. The Treaty of Paris which was gets credit for bringing the war to its end on February 10, 1763. As a result of the treaty France was able to reclaim the islands in the West Indies. That was very important to France because they saw a way to continue their economic wealth from sugar. The French was now defeated and had won absolutely no victories. The colonists we very excited to win the war because they felt that as a result of Britain’s victory they thought their lives would be changed for the better. They were hoping to benefit and prosper even more in the days ahead under British rule. The war resulted in France lost the rest of its North American empire with the exception of New Orleans. Britain now owned all territory that lie east of the Mississippi River. Finally, the trade network would now flourish and the colonists, as well as Great Britain stood to make huge profits in revenue. Most of the goods shipped to the colonies were being imported from Great Britain. Britain now had control of French Canada. As a result of the war, there were several problems: economically, politically and socially. The war had drained Britain’s funds and the monarchy taxed the colonists in order to reduce their debt. The colonists became very angry. The high taxation put on the colonists started another conflict that became known as the American Revolutionary War. This would be an ideal way to introduce the American Revolution the students. Jeremy Campbell September 10, 2007

Anderson, Fred. //The War That Made// //America////: A Short History of the French and Indian// //War//. New York: Viking Press, 2005.

The French and Indian War, the mid eighteenth century clash between the British and French—the two major European empires on the American theater—remains a minor footnote in most history books; oftentimes reduced to an insignificant skirmish between foreign countries. However, in //The War That Made America//, a companion the PBS series of the same name, Fred Anderson, author of the extensively researched and incredibly detailed //The Crucible of War//, offers a more compact and concise version of the French and Indian War. Refusing to give in to the notion of the French and Indian War as an insignificant part of American history, Anderson argues that the imperial war for the Ohio River Valley was in fact a precursor to the American Revolution, the beginning of the end of amicable relations between the British crown and its American colonies. Prior to the American Revolution, most Americans were not political radicals plotting to cut ties with the British Empire. On the contrary, most considered themselves Britons, loyal to the crown, no different from their British counterparts on the opposite side of the Atlantic. During the French and Indian War, American colonial militias fought alongside British soldiers as “partners in a great imperial endeavor” (p.125). However, as Anderson points out, “it had not yet occurred to most Anglo-American colonists that British authorities might have reason to think about the future of the empire and the colonists’ place in it, in an entirely different way” (p.87). As Anderson points out, the Proclamation of 1763—a consequence of the French and Indian War—caused an intense amount of resentment on the part of the colonists towards the British crown. As a result of the Proclamation, colonists felt as if they had been taken advantage of—they fought in a war for neighboring territory that became off-limits after the British victory. This feeling of betrayal coupled with the British Empire tightening its reins over the colonists created a slippery slope that Anderson argues directly contributed to the American radicalism that developed during the revolutionary period. Debbie Butler September 10, 2007

The War that Made America Fred Anderson

Anderson begins by explaining the plight of the American Indian. He tells the story from the point of view of the Native American and how they felt about the colonization. It was refreshing to read this historical era from a different perspective. I don’t think I’ve read anything that brings in the importance of the Iroquois Nation in the French and Indian War. It’s always been presented as a war between France and Britain, with the Native Americans playing a minor role. Anderson also shows that the American colonies were not always thinking of ways to rebel against the Crown, but that many, including George Washington, began as British patriots and fought valiantly for the British flag. With the British victory, settlers could begin to move westward without French threat. They also had little worry from the Native Americans as they were being forced off their lands. The peace that came from Paris would be short lived in the colonies as the British decided that the colonies needed to pay for this war. The French and Indian War set the stage to the career that would follow for Washington, especially his military prowess as the stage was set more fighting. Anderson gives a fresh and thought provoking perspective on this war that is given little credit in its importance in the journey for American independence. After reading this book, one realizes just how important the French and Indian War really was. Staci Ragland __The War That Made__ __America__ __A Short History of the French and Indian War, The War That Made America__, by Fred Anderson, paints a very vivid photograph of what life was like during this trying piece of American history. America was only one player among many in this war that is commonly referred to as “The Seven Years War”. In this book, viewing history through the eyes of a twenty-two year old leader, George Washington, is often gruesome. It is clear that many of these life-changing events in Washington’s life are what strengthened him mentally and sharpened his leadership skills. Anderson, in my opinion, does a great job at painting an accurate picture of this time in history. The details are explicit. However, the reader does not get bogged down with them. __The War That Made America__ is a great glimpse into the events that made America what it is. Through great research and compiling numerous pieces of evidence, this book is full of exact details, but enjoyable to read. Readers will most likely see this part of history as never before.

April Lufkin Miller, Ed. D. Teaching American History Grant Program Jefferson County Schools September 24, 2007

//The War That Made// //America////: A Short History of the French and Indian War// By Fred Anderson

While Fred Anderson’s //The War That Made America// may have the subtitle of “A Short History,” it certainly does not read like a brief edition. Anderson jams so much information into this text that it often overwhelms the reader. This plethora of detailed accounts of Native, British, French and colonial personalities combined with the abundance of foreign sounding (although the majority are of Native American origins) locales tends to be confusing to this southerner’s parlance. The first half of the book reads like a regional history book with its fine eye for the numerous New England and northwestern forts and rivers and valleys. For these reasons, this was not as accessible a book for me. There were numerous incidents where I was hooked by Anderson’s story-telling. His account of George Washington’s part in the initial encounters of the conflict added to my understanding – literally increasing my empathy for this unprepared leader. Washington’s part in the surrender of Fort Necessity is treated like an ironic footnote with little or no back-story. How interesting to learn that he was not originally to lead the troops, or that he did not understand the surrender document that he signed (it was in French). As I read the account of the surrender of Fort William Henry, the soundtrack to //The Last of the Mohicans// played in my mind. The film seems to have given an accurate depiction of the “massacre.” It’s not that I did not enjoy this volume; it’s just that for such a short history, it seemed as if it were too full. April Smith Coffey

Teaching American History Grant

Paper #2: //The War That Made// //America//

In //The War that Made America//, Fred Anderson argues that the French and Indian War is both more complicated and more significant to American History than many realize. Anderson argues that not only did the French and Indian War help to “shape” George Washington, it also destroyed the capacity of Native Americans to resist the encroachment of the English colonists, encouraged whites in their hatred of the native peoples, and set the stage for the Revolutionary War. George Washington gained prominence during the French and Indian War. He was elected to the House of Burgesses, and as a result of his several brushes with death during the war, Anderson argues that Washington began to feel that he was ordained by Providence to complete some higher mission.[|[1]] Anderson argues that the French and Indian War is much more complex than a struggle between the French and British for dominance in North America. The Iroquois were an extremely involved component of this war as well. Ultimately, the French and Indian War strained Britain’s financial resources and made the British more resolved to exert control in the Americas. The colonists should pay the costs of protecting them. Therefore, Britain began enacting taxes, such as the Stamp Act and Townshend Acts, and attempting to tighten the reins on the colonists, thus igniting the fuse of the Revolutionary War.[|[2]]

[|[1]] Anderson, p. 175. [|[2]]Anderson, p. 242-262. Robert M. Adams

Book Review: __The War That Made__ __America____, A Short History of the French Indian War__. Anderson, Fred. Penguin Books. Copyright 2005.

In his book, __The War That Made__ __America____, A Short History of the French Indian War__, Anderson addresses an aspect of American History often forgotten or neglected in lieu of the grander and more romantic story of the American Revolution. Anderson effectively argues that instead of separating the two, in reality, they are very closely linked and related. As the title suggests, the author believes the French Indian War was more than the final in a series of European conflicts that would eventually spill over into colonial territories, but rather the prelude to the American Revolution, the war that would solidify American independence; but the origins of American Independence are deeply rooted in the French and Indian War. Anderson’s text is unique not only because of the detail it provides of the actual battles and tactics utilized in the French and Indian War, but also in his ability to delve deeper into the minutia of the alliances, personalities, politics, and economics of the conflict.

The author presents such detail in three major aspects of the French and Indian War: The fact that the conflict could arguably be considered the first legitimate “world war”. Not only does almost every European country, mainly England, France, and eventually Spain, but Germany / Prussia, Russia, and most of the sovereign states of Europe take an active role in the French and Indian War (or Seven Years War) in Europe. In addition, the conflict stretches from not only Europe and the North American mainland, but from the various Caribbean Islands and the Philippines as well. This conflict establishes and solidifies Great Britain as the dominant European country in the Americas. Additionally, Anderson weaves an almost biographical tale of George Washington from a defeated Virginia militia major to arguably the most powerful man in America. Within this tale, the author also effectively communicates how what would become the United States actually begins to formulate its national identity, character, and belief that they were actually “equals” of the British as a result of their participation in the conflict. Finally, Anderson examines the often forgotten participant in the war, that of the Indians in North America. This is a most interesting theme of the book as it is often left out of Anglo-historian versions of the conflict, or not given due attention. Anderson pointedly scrutinizes the role of the Native Americans from their alliances with the French, conflict between individual tribes, and the devastation caused to the Native American tribes as a result of the British / American victory in the conflict.

In addition to these three major themes, Anderson also provides an effective overview of the actual battles and strategic movements that took place in the French and Indian War and the devastating results it would have on the Indians, the French empire, and the Spanish empires in North America. As the author summarizes in his Epilogue, “It had been the war that inspired the colonists to conceive of themselves as equal partners in the empire, ultimately enabling them to rebel against British sovereign power in the name of liberty.”

Candace Heard Minor High School Teaching American History Grant Reaction to Fred Anderson’s //The War That Made// //America////: A Short History of the French and Indian War// Most high school history textbooks give short shrift to the French and Indian War. What material that is given is used to introduce the causes for the War for Independence. Usually there are two or three sentences about the cause of the war, an obligatory first nod to the young officer George Washington, a brief mention of the alliances in place at first between the French and certain Indian nations and later between the British and various Indian nations. Of course, included will be the provisions of the Treaty of Paris 1763. The textbook used by 10th-graders in Jefferson country follows this mold. There are a scant two pages including pictures about this war. Seldom is any result of the French and Indian War mentioned that could be considered a long-term result. Anderson does present a thesis that opines that one of the most significant legacies of this war is the bitter hatred engendered among the Indians toward the white man. This animosity was so intense that it colored American relations with the Indians for another century. That hatred, though no longer so overt, still exists within certain Indian nations today. Anderson couches the text within the book-ends of George Washington’s career and traces the maturation of the colonists into Americans through the metaphor of his growth and development as a military leader. He provides a thorough discourse of the politics of the various Indian nations and exposes their power struggles. The reader can more easily ascertain the tensions created by the threat of the white man’s invasions of Indian hunting areas. Juxtaposed against this scenario is the European opinion that Indians were savages and American colonists were rubes, at best. What transpires is a clear picture of two European nations in a death struggle for supremacy in North America. Neither The French nor the English deemed the Indians to be on a par with themselves and often showed disdain for the Indian culture and mores; however, they were more than willing to exploit the Indian nations. A few wise men worked among the Indians and advised the top military officers of each side about the consequences of their treatment of the Indians Brutal fighting continued until the British managed to cut off French supply lines to its interior regions. By 1759, most of the fighting in America had ceased, but the war continued in Europe as the Seven Years’ War. To say that this was made America can be substantiated by the fact that the American colonists had gained self-confidence and invaluable military experience. More than ever, they saw the need for colonial unity in order to meet common problems. The danger of attack by the French and certain Indian tribes had been removed from their frontiers, thus alleviating much of the former risks in occupying the area. Americans began to feel less dependency upon her mother country. Britain saw their American colonies as a cause of vast expenditure of monies, leaving Britain with an astronomical war debt of $130,000,000. The British perceived that the American were not demonstrating the proper amount of gratitude for having been “saved” from the French. Contrary to facts, the British claimed that the Americans had not cooperated enough in the prosecution of the war. In appropriate deference to the mother country’s standing, the American colonies should foot a significant portion of the cost of the war. The manner by which the British planned to collect the needed funds from the Americans, strictly enforcing existing laws and levying new taxes, so enraged the colonists that they eventually fought for independence.

Ryan Posey

Teaching American History Grant

September 11, 2007

“The War That Made America” By Fred Anderson

Fred Anderson is an award winning author that has written in great depth about the French and Indian War. His book “The Crucible of War” studies this topic in great depth. “The War That Made America” gives a less in depth but cumulative analysis of this epic war that forever altered the future of North America and in many ways western civilization. Anderson’s book investigates the multiple factors that contributed to this conflict and the impact of those participating on each side of the war. The first part of the book looks at the background of the two great empires in North America during this time. Anderson describes the alliances being formed and broken between the French and British with numerous Native American tribes in the Northeast and Ohio Valley regions. These alliances were at all times very fragile and at many instances were very close to bringing on war. The French and Indian War became inevitable once both empires began to stretch their influence and territory further into the continent. The Native Americans living in the disputed areas, such as the Iroquois Nation, were faced with a choice of which empire to side with. The approaches each colonial power chose determined their influence with the various tribes. Anderson describes how the French seemed to be more inclusive with the native people living amongst them and giving more lenient terms in trade and settlement. The British are described as being more difficult in negotiations and less willing to live in direct contact with native people. However eventually the British found ways to maintain alliances with important tribes That would play an important role in their victory. This is a war fought on two major fronts in North America and in Europe. In Europe the war is known as the Seven Years War. Eventually the results of the war in Europe directly influence the outcome in North America. As war begins the control of forts is a major point of emphasis for both sides. Many of the most important victories for each side are connected to a change in control of important forts in key locations. Each nation had fortified its colonies knowing that war was constantly on the horizon and also in constant fear of insurrection by the native people. The book describes the early stages of battle and the leaders that shape the course of the war for each side. One very significant that was interpreted in numerous paintings, and in many ways is symbolic of the lasting effects of the war, is the death of the British General Wolfe. The book also describes the challenges of French commanders such as Montcalm and Amherst for the British. The last chapters of the book describe how the British were eventually able to wear down the French in North America and how the war in Europe prevented the French from devoting the assets needed to fight a total war on the American front. The eventual surrender of the French forever changed the landscape of North America and the British influence over the colonies. The British victory and the enormous war debt that followed helps create the need for the dramatic increase in British control over the colonies and the taxation that causes the tension before the American Revolution. The other significant consequence is the impact on the Native Americans. Shortly after the war there are numerous small wars waged by native people against British colonists. These groups of people would pay a harsh consequence as a result of the British victory. This was especially true for the tribes that sided with the French, but ultimately true for all native people in the area. In the next few decades these people would be driven from their homes in spite of the Proclamation of 1763 that required British colonists to not settle west of the Appalachian Mountains. This epic struggle for empire forever changed North America and the future of the British Empire. The increased British presence in North America and the taxation that follows the war creates a situation that causes many colonists to change their opinions about the nature of their relationship with their mother country. This book gives an excellent description of the events and circumstances leading up to the war, the events that shaped the war and the consequences of its outcome. This war that is so important in the history of the Western Hemisphere has not received as much focus as it deserves, but Anderson has consistently illuminated the topic in his writing in a way that provides unique insight for anyone who wants to understand the broad impact of the war. Anderson’s book is an excellent resource for any teacher of early American History. The book provides extensive details of the war and its impact on North American History. I can use the book as outside reading in my classroom or as a resource for lectures and projects. It is unfortunate that most high school History textbooks briefly discuss the French and Indian War and rarely dedicate more than a page to the topic. This war deserves at the least an entire chapter if not a unit. For this reason any resource related to the war is valuable to History teachers. I will use the book to help students understand the enormous impact of the war and discuss the topic in way that gives it more significance than just a minor footnote in American History.
 * Sandi Covington,** **Crumly** **Chapel** **Elementary School**
 * Summary of “The American Journey” – Chapters 4-6**

This portion of the book focuses first on that great colonial leader, George Washington and how he was compelled to (in 1763) go against the British in war. Being one that fully embraced the idea of patriotism, he believed it was far better to make a life for himself in the colonies that seemed to be brimming with promise and greatness than to accept the status quo of continued tyranny of England. Colonists already believed that they were being mistreated by their motherland. Feelings of discontent gradually became feelings of disenfranchisement. Differences between themselves ant the English became more obvious to them in not so subtle ways. Eventually, the next step, however difficult and uncomfortable, was a breaking of the bonds. The war for independence was truly something that the rest of the world took note of. With George Washington at the forefront to urge those who had fought with him in the past to maintain their strong attachment to the Union, they would persevere until victory was won.

A way to use this in a lesson: As a hook, open with a staged scenario of a good kid being lured into becoming part of a neighborhood gang. He knows that there’s a possibility of quick gratification such as instant celebrity, material gain (stolen merchandise) also potential danger as well. On the other hand, the alternate (good route) has intrinsic rewards as well as some overt ones such as: doing the right thing, possible celebrity, status with the law-abiding citizenry, etc. Then, begin talking about Washington’s decision. . . (He
 * Sandi Covington,** **Crumly** **Chapel** **Elementary School**
 * Summary of “The War that Made** **America****” by Fred Anderson**

The main theme of this book is “How American Indian, British, French and Colonial experiences in a long and expensive war helped to light the flame that much later ignited in to the American Revolution. Since the colonial farmers greedily sought after new land, they resented the British guarantees made to the American Indians in the Ohio Valley that the settlers would stay east of the Alleghenies. This behavior cultivated resentment of Parliament among farmers as well as land speculators.

Since the French had lost Canada to the British, they were eager to strike back whenever they could. King Louis XVI cast caution to the wind and continuously provided much-needed supplies, troops and ships to the American patriots. The Iroquois Confederacy seemed to still have the influence they had going into the conflict. They desired to remain neutral, however, that neutrality seemed of little use after the French were forced out of the picture.

An interesting portion of the book was William Penn’s desire for peaceful relations with the American Indians. He dealt differently – fairly – with them, choosing to buy their land along the Delaware River rather than attempting to take it from them. His heirs did not share the same views on dealing with the natives, however. The treatment the Indians received from Penn’s heirs along with more pressure from settlers to move further west make the Indians angry. After Braddock’s defeat in 1755, the Indian uprising resulted in one of the bloodiest years in the history of that part of the country.

Finally, this book showcases then General Washington’s stellar efforts to keep the Continental Army together in spite of being outnumbered and outmaneuvered by the British. It shows his great propensity to lead as well as inspire. ster Primm?) It’s somehow comforting for me to know that the early settlers weren’t so different from the way we are today. Sabrina Porrill September 9, 2007 //__The War That Made America__// is a novel by Fred Anderson that looks deeply into the French and Indian War (the Seven Years War to the rest of the world) and shows the reader how this back woods skirmish in the Ohio valley forever changed North America, Europe and the whole world. It looks at the young George Washington and how his early military mistakes in his twenties help develop him into the future leader of the Revolutionary Army, the first President of the United States and “Father of our Country”. It also shows how he learns from Braddock how to lead an army with discipline and training and unfortunately how not to lead an attack on a French fortification. It looks at the role of the Native Americans in this war for control of North America as well. It teaches us that whoever gets the Native Americans to side with them (Britain or France), they will win the war. Both sides learn the lesson that they cannot win without their support no matter how large a regular army they raise. The book also shows how they wisely played one side against the other or remained neutral in order to keep as much land under their control as possible. The book finally examines the American colonists growing concern over how the English crown views them and their responsibilities in this war. Before the war, colonists felt they were English citizens with all the rights therein. During, and especially after the war, they begin to feel that they are the mistreated stepchildren of England and their displeasure grows into revolution in just a matter of a few years following the French and Indian War ending due to several missteps taken by England. And in the end, these missteps bring about the birth of a new nation and ultimately a new world order. Sabrina Porrill August 25, 2007 //__The American Journey__// Summary Chapters 4-6

Chapter 4: //Convergence and Conflict// (1660’s-1763) begins by discussing the quick population and economic growth of the American Colonies in the 1700’s. England’s policy of mercantilism spurred this growth and the growth of a wealthy class in the colonies that tried its best to emulate the English aristocracy in dress, culture and deed. The Age of Enlightenment and the Great Awakening also influenced these puritanical colonists. After years of neglect, England’s Parliament tried to exercise governance over the colonies in the mid 1700’s with much difficulty and resistance by the standing colonial governments. “No taxation without representation” was the colonial cry while “virtual representation” was the British reply. The expanding boundaries of the English colonies as well as Spain and France’s North American lands was leading to rising tensions between these European powers that would lead to the French and Indian War. With England’s victory, they now claimed all land east of the Mississippi River. Chapter 5: //Imperial Breakdown// (1763-1774) begins by listing many missteps Britain took immediately following the French and Indian War including the Proclamation Line of 1763, the Quartering Acts, the Sugar Act and Stamp Act. All were viewed by colonists as a slap in the face after their perceived loyal support of the Crown throughout the war. Tensions rose slowly over the next few years to reach a boiling point with the Townshend Duty Act, the Boston Tea Party, the Boston Massacre and finally the Coercive Acts. The colonial response to the Intolerable Acts, as they became known, was the First Continental Congress and the path toward revolution was being laid. Chapter 6//: The War for// //Independence// (1774-1783) begins with a look at the days before the Battles of Lexington and Concord and the “shots heard round the world”. The Second Continental Congress convenes, drafts the Olive Branch Petition, names George Washington as the commander of the Revolutionary Army and writes the Declaration of Independence. The early stages of the war were successful for the Americans with wins at Fort Ticonderoga, Great Bridge and Moore’s Creek Bridge. The middle of the war was successful for the British with victories in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia and Savanna. The last stage of the war brought about victory for the Americans with aid from the French and a crucial win at Yorktown. The chapter ends with a discussion of the terms of the Peace of Paris of 1783 and how this war and the following time of peace effected soldiers, women, African-Americans and Native Americans.

Robert M. Adams __The American Journey__ Review; Ch 6-8

In chapters 6-8 of the American Journey textbook, the areas of the American Revolution, the creation of the American Republic, and the rise of political parties is fully addressed. This time period in American history has been romanticized with both fact and folklore. Needless to say it was one of the most crucial, critical, and vital in all of American History.

Chapter Six of the text traces the American Revolution from the earliest creation of the “Committees of Public Safety”, militias, and minutemen; through the Battle of Yorktown. The text compares and contrasts the American and British militaries and leaders as well as the manner in which the war was conducted in its various theaters. As significant as the actual military campaigns in the Revolution were, the text also analyzes the affect the American Revolution had from a political, economic, geographic, and most importantly, social aspect. The conclusion of Chapter 6 does point out the implication that the American Revolution did not only affected the Americans and British, but had influence on the balance of power and political institutions on European countries as well.

Chapter Seven traces the trails and tribulations of the United States in the post-revolution America. The formation of the American Republic, originally under the Articles of Confederation, was a political system that led to many trials and errors, all of which had to be addressed by individuals from states who possessed a myriad of opinions on what the real meaning of “republicanism” and “democracy” were. In addition to the establishment of a government to rule the new country, a multitude of economic, social, geographic, and political—both foreign and domestic—issues had to be addressed as well. The multiple issues led to various, very different opinions as to how the issues were to be addressed. These differences of opinion and domestic strife would eventually lead to the decision to scrap the Articles of Confederation and the development of the Constitution of the United States. Political debates over the writing, debating, and eventual ratification of The Constitution would result in the creation of the Anti-Federalists and the Federalists, the precursor to the political parties of the late 1700s and early 1800s.

Chapter Eight discusses in detail the presidencies of George Washington and John Adams, but most importantly the rise and influence of political parties in America. Although political parties are taken for granted in today’s society, the development of the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans parties of the late 18th and early 19th century demonstrated the chasm between different groups in America, often times along economic, social, and geographic lines. Also influencing the new American democracy was western expansion and the interpretation of the United States Constitution. Because Washington, although not officially a Federalist, did have a Federalist majority in his cabinet, seemingly supported most Federalists policies; for example, Alexander Hamilton’s financial plan, including the National Bank of the United States, the use of Federal force to suppress the Whiskey Rebellion, and expansion of the central government. Finally, the chapter concludes by discussing the nearly impossible task of following Washington as president, which fell on the shoulders of John Adams. The second president had to deal with not only the opposing Democratic - Republican Party, but dissention within his own Federalist Party as well. Between international crises such as the XYZ Affair with France and continued issues with the British, as well as domestic insurrections, mainly the Alien and Sedition Acts, spurred continued attacks on Adams from both political parties. The Federalist Party would continue to decline in popularity in favor of Thomas Jefferson and the Democratic-Republicans in the election of 1800. Donna Love Gardendale Elementary History Alive September Journal Entry The War That Made America Great Fred Anderson

The French and Indian War, (Seven Years War) is covered in four pages in the

fifth grade history book. Hardly enough information to encourage a lot of interest and

enthusiasm in the founding of America

Fred Anderson’s, //The War That Made America// is an excellent reference book for

history teachers. He vividly describes the position of the British, the French and the

Native Americans. I enjoyed the journey of a young George Washington and

his experiences both successful and unsuccessful in the British Army and leading up to

being leader of the Continental army.

Even though Andersons book contains more information than I could possibly use, I

know that by reading it I will do a much better job in teaching this most important event

in history. My students will not only gain more knowledge about the French and Indian

War but hopefully will become more enthusiastic and develop a passion for the history of

their country.

I see many ways to use this book in my classroom. We will do character dialogues

of important people during this time. Another possibility is a George Washington’s

diary, or a diary a French officer or Native American during the French and Indian War

Map studies of the area would be an important factor to do during this study also.

I am excited!