Date of Graduation
2007
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MA
Committee Chair
Ronald Lewis
Abstract
In 1754, George Washington and nearly three hundred of his fellow Virginians marched deep into the Allegheny Mountains and into a geographical tinderbox. These men, together a reflection of their society, carried the responsibility and burden of an empire on their shoulders. Together they would experience incredible hardships, privations, and hazards. “Setting the World on Fire” explores the story of young George Washington, the men he commanded, and the colony of Virginia on the threshold of a global, imperial war between Britain and France. This thesis attempts to add new depth to our understanding of the opening campaign of the French and Indian War by broadening the discussion and challenging predominant interpretations, especially regarding Washington through a combined military, social, political, and ethnic lens.
Recommended Citation
Fearer, Christian E., "Setting the world on fire: Washington, those he led, and Virginia on the threshold of world war, 1753-1754." (2007). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD). 11002.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/11002