John Forbes: The Scottish Soldier Who Shaped American History
John Forbes (5 September 1707 – 11 March 1759) was a Scottish professional soldier whose relatively short life left an indelible mark on American history. Rising through the ranks of the British Army, Forbes played a crucial role in the French and Indian War, a conflict that would shape the future of North America.
Casey Adams
7/12/20243 min read


Early Life and Military Career
Born in Pittencrief, Fife, Scotland, John Forbes came from a notable Scottish family.
Little is known about his early education, but his family background likely provided him with opportunities for advancement.
In 1729, at the age of 22, Forbes entered the British Army, embarking on a military career that would define his life.
Forbes' early military experiences remain largely undocumented, but he must have shown considerable aptitude and leadership skills.
He steadily rose through the ranks, gaining valuable experience in various campaigns and postings.
The Seven Years' War
The French and Indian War (1754-1763), part of the larger Seven Years' War, was a conflict between Britain and France for control of North America.
Not to be confused with the French being at war with the Indians, Instead, the Indians actually sided with the French to get back at the British.
This war would provide Forbes with his most significant opportunities and challenges.
As tensions escalated between the British and French colonies, Forbes' reputation as a capable officer led to his appointment to lead a crucial expedition against Fort Duquesne, a French stronghold located at the forks of the Ohio River.
The Forbes Expedition (1758)
Fort Duquesne held immense strategic importance. Situated at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, it controlled access to the Ohio River Valley, a region vital for trade and westward expansion.
Previous British attempts to capture the fort had failed, including the disastrous expedition led by General Edward Braddock in 1755.
Forbes approached the challenge methodically. Rather than rushing headlong towards the fort, he focused on establishing a secure supply line.
This strategy led to the construction of the Forbes Road, a military trail stretching from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, to Fort Duquesne.
Building the Forbes Road was a monumental task. The expedition had to cut through dense forests, cross mountain ranges, and traverse swamps.
Forbes supervised the construction of a series of forts and supply depots along the route, ensuring his forces would not suffer from the same logistical problems that had plagued previous expeditions.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including harsh weather, difficult terrain, and ongoing skirmishes with French-allied Native American forces, Forbes pressed on.
His cautious approach and strategic acumen paid off. By November 1758, the French, realizing they were outnumbered and cut off from supplies, abandoned and destroyed Fort Duquesne before Forbes' force arrived.
Forbes renamed the location Pittsburgh, in honor of British statesman William Pitt. This marked the birth of one of America's most important cities and solidified British control over the Ohio River Valley.
Legacy of the Forbes Road
The immediate impact of Forbes' expedition was significant, tipping the balance of the war in favor of the British in North America. However, the long-term impact of the Forbes Road proved even more profound.
After the war, the road became a major route for settlers moving westward. It facilitated trade, communication, and further exploration of the western territories.
Many towns and settlements sprang up along its path, contributing to the rapid expansion of the American colonies and, later, the young United States.
Today, much of the original Forbes Road forms part of U.S. Route 30. Historical markers along the route commemorate its significance in American history.
Forbes' Final Days
The expedition took a severe toll on Forbes' health. Already suffering from a painful skin condition, the rigors of the campaign left him seriously ill.
Despite his deteriorating condition, Forbes continued to command until the mission was complete.
After the capture of Fort Duquesne, Forbes returned to Philadelphia, where he died on March 11, 1759.
He was buried with full military honors in the chancel of Christ Church, a fitting resting place for a man who had contributed so much to British America.
Historical Assessment
John Forbes' military achievements were significant. His successful capture of Fort Duquesne was a turning point in the French and Indian War, contributing substantially to the ultimate British victory in North America.
However, Forbes' most lasting impact was arguably on American colonial history and future development.
The road he built opened up the western territories, facilitating the young nation's expansion and playing a crucial role in shaping the geographic and economic landscape of the United States.
Conclusion
John Forbes' life, though cut short at the age of 51, left an enduring legacy. His strategic thinking, determination, and foresight not only contributed to British victory in the French and Indian War but also laid the groundwork for America's westward expansion.
The city of Pittsburgh and the historic route of the Forbes Road stand as testaments to his impact on American history, reminding us of the far-reaching consequences of his 1758 expedition.
Forbes exemplifies how individual actions, even in a short lifespan, can shape the course of nations and continents.