French and Indian War Summary - British Soldiers Vs. French Soldiers
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Fighting Style
British
French
Native American Relations
The British used a very "European style" type of fighting during the war. The British would fight in a linear formation and were defined by their bright red coats, which were easily seen by enemies even in dense wilderness.
"Savages may indeed be a formidable enemy to your raw American militia; but upon the king's regular and disciplined troops, Sir, it is impossible they should make an impression." -- British General Edward Braddock
The French adapted the Native American "guerrilla" tactics during the war. The French relied on camouflage to blend into the environment, making it very difficult for their enemies to spot them in combat.
In the early stages of the French and Indian War, British leadership were adamant in their abilities to win the war on their own without help from the "savages" of North America. As the war progressed, the British would ally themselves with the powerful Iroquois Nation.
Since early French exploration, their relations with the Native Americans were much better than the British. Initial French fur traders and "couerurs de bois" or "runners of the woods" allowed for numerous alliances with Native American tribes throughout the war.
Leadership
The British leadership included Edward Braddock, James Wolfe, and a young George Washington. All three leaders experience loss during the war; Washington lost Fort Necessity, while both Braddock and Wolfe were killed in battle.
The French were lead primarily by Louis-Joseph de Montcalm. Montcalm was an exceptional military strategist, however the major turning point in the war came when he lost the city of Quebec to the British General, James Wolfe. Montcalm was killed in the fight for Quebec.