French + Indian War

 

The French and Indian War began in southwestern Pennsylvania in 1758 when France, Great Britain and Native American tribes battled for control of one of the most important pieces of real estate in North America in the 18th century. This piece of land, called the Forks of the Ohio, is now the City of Pittsburgh.

In the 1700s, the French, British and Native Americans each knew the value of this land where three rivers merged, for whoever controlled this point of land and these waterways also controlled access to the frontier beyond. With its strategic geography and topography, present-day Pittsburgh was the Gateway to the West. Ultimately, the empire of France in North America was destroyed, changing the course of our world forever. Britain, cash strapped by victory, turned to its colonists to help bear the burdens of empire by imposing taxes, and ignited the American Revolution. In 2008, Pittsburgh will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the French and Indian War.

Pittsburgh's 250th Events

Three Signature Projects are the epicenter of year-long festivities, and are complemented by dozens of celebrations throughout the region:

  • The Forbes Trail links important Pennsylvania historic sites and will enable families to travel and learn about the making of America. Visitors will experience history, from the opening shots of the French and Indian War, to debates that shaped the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, to the battles of Gettysburg and Flight 93.
  • The completion of the Great Allegheny Passage, a 335-mile bicycle and hiking trail, will restore the first link between the nation's capital and Pittsburgh.
  • The transformation of Point State Park will restore this symbol of the Pittsburgh Renaissance, reinvigorate access to the three rivers and communicate the Point's role in the formation of America (it will serve as both destination and "mile zero" for those following George Washington's trails through the region). The park will thrive with new festival grounds and a rich array of outdoor activities.