The American Republic To 1877 © 2007

Chapter 4: The Colonies Grow

Web Lesson Plans

Introduction
In this chapter students learned about the growing prosperity of the colonies, the developing colonial governments, and ideas that influenced colonial thinkers. All of this was accompanied by a physical growth across the Appalachian Mountains into territory that was claimed by France. Inevitably, conflict followed. The French and Indian War lasted from 1754 to 1763 and set the stage for events that would develop into the American Revolution.

Lesson Description
The skirmish at Fort Necessity was the first battle of the French and Indian War. Students will visit the Fort Necessity National Battlefield Web site to learn more about the background of the conflict and the action that took place there. Students will also explore a primary source by reading the “Articles of Capitulation” that brought an end to the conflict. After answering questions about what they have read, students will write a news report of the battle, taking the point of view of either a French or an English writer.

1. The learner will be able to describe the location of Fort Necessity.
2. The learner will be able to interpret a primary source and formulate an opinion.
3. The learner will be able to recognize different points of view.

1. Fort Necessity is located in the Allegheny Mountains in southwestern Pennsylvania.
2. The action at Fort Necessity was the first major event in George Washington’s military career, and it was also the only time he ever surrendered to an enemy.
3. He and his men had attacked a group of French soldiers, killing their commander and nine others. Washington expected that the French might retaliate with “considerable forces,” so he fortified his position by building Fort Necessity.
4. Students’ answers may vary. Some may say that the terms were fair because the English were granted the honors of war and were permitted to keep their belongings (except the artillery).
5. Students’ accounts will vary.