Battle Cries in the Wilderness: The Struggle for North America in the Seven Years' War

Bernd Horn

Jul 2011 · Canadians at War Series Book 5 · Dundurn

About this ebook

The savage struggle to take control of the North American wilderness during the epic Seven Years War (1756-63) between France and England is a gripping tale. As the two European powers battled each other for global economic, political and military supremacy in what some have called the first world war, the brutal conflict took on a unique North American character, particularly in the role Native allies played on both sides.

Formal European tactics and military protocols were out of place in the harsh, unforgiving forests of the New World. Cavalry, mass infantry columns, and volley fire proved less effective in the heavily wooded terrain of North America than it did in Europe. What mattered in the colonial hinterland of New France and the British American colonies was an ability to navigate, travel, and survive in the uncharted wilderness. Equally important was the capacity to strike at the enemy with surprise, speed, and violence.

After all, the reward for victory was substantial -- mastery of North America.

About the author

Colonel Bernd Horn has held key positions in the Canadian Forces, including deputy commander of Canadian Special Operations Forces Command. An adjunct professor of history at the Royal Military College of Canada, he has authored, co-authored, or co-edited 30 books on military history and military affairs, including No Lack of Courage: Operation Medusa, Afghanistan. He lives in Kingston, Ontario.