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1753 "The encroachments of the French, and the erection of forts, on land claimed by the colonies or the crown of Great Britain, occasioned an order from the crown to the colonies to resist the French. In November, 1753, Major Washington, who afterwards commanded the armies of America, was dispatched by Governor Dinwiddie of Virginia to learn the views of the French, who had taken possession of the territory on the Ohio. By the answer of the French Commander, it appeared that the government of France claimed the country, & determined to keep possession." Web. U. S. 187.