Light

Treaty of Paris in 1763

Definition

The agreement that ended the Seven Years' War, marking a turning point in European and American history. It resulted in France losing nearly all of its colonies in North America to Britain.

Analogy

Think of the Treaty of Paris as a game-ending whistle in a soccer match. After lots of back-and-forth (the Seven Years' War), this treaty signaled the end of the game, with Britain coming out as the winner and taking home most of France's trophies (colonies).

Related terms

Proclamation Line of 1763: A line along the Appalachian Mountains instituted by King George III following Great Britain's acquisition of French territory, which forbade all settlement past a certain line.

Pontiac’s Rebellion: An uprising after the Treaty of Paris where Native American tribes were dissatisfied with British post-war policies in the Great Lakes region after their victory.

Salutary Neglect: An unofficial British policy during late 17th and early 18th century that allowed American colonies freedom to pursue economic growth if they followed British trade regulations; it ended after Seven Years' War when Britain started enforcing stricter control leading to American Revolution.