Clash of Empires: The British, French & Indian War, 1754-1763
Clash of Empires: The British, French & Indian War, 1754-1763 presents the dramatic, wide-ranging story of the French & Indian War and its impact as a turning point in American history.
The exhibit commemorates the 250th anniversary of this global conflict. Featuring rare artifacts gathered from museums and private collections around the world, Clash of Empires examines the origins, development, and aftermath of the war. It also provides a unique perspective on the conflict from each of the participants—the British, French, and Native Americans.
After a successful run at the History Center, the exhibit traveled to the Canadian War Museum/Museum of Civilization in Ottawa and the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. before returning to Pittsburgh, at home now on the History Center’s fifth floor.
- In 1753 George Washington noted in his diary, “I spent some Time in viewing the Rivers, and the Land in the Fork; which I think extremely well situated for a Fort, as it has the absolute Command of both Rivers.” He was talking about Pittsburgh’s Point, of course.
- For his part in the French & Indian War, George Washington received nearly 3,000 acres of land in Western Pennsylvania.
Listen
Listen to Seneca leader Tanaghrisson’s council speech in 3 languages.
English
Seneca
French
Area Maps
The History Center commissioned artist Fred Threlfall to create a series of maps with the look and feel of period maps and depicting the areas important to the French & Indian War and the Clash of the Empires. All five maps are currently on display in the exhibit.
Life-like Figures
Commissioned for the exhibit by renowned British artist Gerry Embleton, these figures represent the war’s most fascinating characters, including an angry French officer burning his own flag; a distraught young George Washington agonizing over the decision to sign the Treaty of Fort Necessity; and Seneca leader Tanaghrisson.
