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1453
The Hundred Years' War ends
This war was a conflict in Europe between England and France over who would succeed the French throne. It would lead to reinforcement of the already existing political structures in both countries, a strong sense of national identity, and an English interest in exploring that would result in John Cabot reaching Newfoundland. -
The Beaver Wars begin
The Beaver Wars occurred as the Haudenosaunee moved west and attempted to gain more control over the fur trade and replace population that was lost from other wars or illness. This war expanded their influence, displaced other indigenous groups, and impacted the fur trade. -
The Mourning Wars escalate
In response to the French and Wendat alliance and trade agreements, the Haudenosaunee intensified these wars in order to gain control. The wars occurred primarily in southern Ontario and Ohio Valley. As a result, the Wendat population dwindled and the survivors dispersed into other indigenous groups. This impacted the French's ability to fur and the access to agriculture for the surrounding indigenous groups. -
Iroquois Wars
This war was initiated when the French and their allies moved onto western Haudenosaunee territory despite a recent truce. It became one the most violent series of conflicts between the two groups. The French tried to use it as a way to destabilize the Haudenosaunee alliance with the English. The Haudenosaunee chose to sign treaties with both sides which protected their territory, instigated conflict between the other two, and put them in a position of continued control. -
War of the League of Augsburg begins
This conflict occurred between the French and English in both Europe and North America. In North America, the English took Port Royal from the French and the French raided English settlements such as St. John's, Newfoundland, Fort York, and the Hudson's Bay Company Post. The conflict would follow a pattern where the home countries would sign treaties in order to settle the conflicts. The conflict would create divisions within the Haudenosaunee league and different treaties were signed. -
War of the Spanish Succession begins
This war is another European war that spilled over into the North American colonies. At the beginning, New England tried to retake Port Royal and the French/Wabanaki alliance led raids on New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Raids were led back and forth from both sides and people were captured each time. In 1710, the British brought in forces to capture Port Royal. One year later they would attempt to take Canada but that would ultimately fail. -
The War of the Austrian Succession begins
Another war that carried over to the colonies from their home countries. The French took their opportunity to attack Nova Scotia but in return, the New Englanders captured Louisbourg. The New Englanders and British would now have control over the coast from Newfoundland to Georgia. They would clear all francophones and acadians from that area -
The Seven Years War begins
The French and the British continue to battle for land in North America. Despite a strong start from the French it would be the British who capture Ohio Valley and St. Lawrence in 1758 and 1759 respectively. This war marked the moment that the British officially took over Canada, New France no longer existed, and the Haudenosaunee were displaced. All would only lead to more conflict in the future. -
Pontiac's War
This war occurred as a result of Pontiac, the Chief of the Odawa people, taking inspiration from the words of Neolin the Prophet. Neolin advocated for his people to reject the ways of the Europeans. The rebellion led to the deaths of a couple thousands settlers. The Europeans demonstrated their willingness to do whatever necessary to win when they stopped trade and spread smallpox with inoculated blankets. Despite the lack of success, this rebellion inspired others to take up arms as well. -
The War of Independence begins
Also referred to as the American Revolution. The American colonies wanted to increase their power by taking over some of the land in Canada. The decision came down to Nova Scotia or Quebec. They chose to attempt at capturing Quebec for it's resources and the absence of the British Navy. The Americans broke tradition and looked to achieve independence from their home country but did not expect the French to be uninterested in an uprising and would not succeed. -
War of 1812 begins
The Americans push toward gain power in the west but have issues with Indigenous resistance that was supported by the British. The Americans believe that the British were the root of the problem. This paired with the British interfering with American ships that contributed strongly to their economy. On June 1 the Americans would declare war on the British who were distracted by a war in Europe. Overall territory did not change but a clear border was made and canadians had a common enemy. -
The Chilcotin War
When British colonists were trying to move into the Chiclotin territory in the Bute Inlet, they Chiclotin people responded by killing a road building crew. The British responded with an unyielding demonstration of their power that did not end until the Chiclotin leaders gave themselves up to the British. In an act of ruthlessness, the British hung the leaders with no negotiation. This made the Chiclotin people fearful of the British and more open to the promises of the Church and government.
