Seven Years War - Essay Example

The Seven Year’s War Affiliation The Seven Year’s War took place from 1756-1763 being one of the worst conflict that preceded the French revolution1. Most of European powers were engaged in this war, there were two main conflict fronts. Britain was in conflict with Spain and France .the second struggle involved Frederick II,the Great and his foes that that included;Sweden,Russia,Austria and France. The immediate cause of war was when Austrian Habsburgs attempted to redeem one of its richest provinces, Silesia that had been taken by the Great Prussian ruler, Frederick II2.

It was during the Austrian war of succession that Frederick II subdued Silesia (1740-1748).During these seven years of battle, Britain and France differed and took parallel side in battle because both of them were eyeing North America as a colony of choice. India was dragged into war since it was a place of colonial interest by the major European powers, Britain and France. France got involved in the seven year’s war because it was interested in the colonies which by coincidence were also the target of Britain.

3Because of this conflict of colonial interest with each of the two counties wanting to have a larger sphere of influence, war was inevitable. In this case India was just a victim of circumstances, drawn into war unprepared and unwillingly.The war ended with the signing of the Franco-British Treaty in 1963. In this treaty, Britain took Canada and Florida initially controlled by France and Spain respectively. France controlled the West Indian cane islands allowing Spain take Louisiana. Britain won the war as it managed to take both North America and India as its colonies4.

The seven years war crowned Britain the master in abroad colonies. Frederick II the Great retained Silesia affirming Russia’s as the main European strength.BibliographyAnderson, Fred. Crucible of War: The Seven Years’ War and the Fate of Empire in British North America, 1754-1766. Vintage, 2007.