Everyone knows George Washington as the United States' first president and General of the Continental Army.

But here’s what you probably don’t know: When George Washington was only 21 years old, twenty years before the American Revolution, his actions partially kicked off an international incident between England and France called the French and Indian War.

How did this happen? Here’s the story:

From Surveyor to Military Leader

Washington began his career as a surveyor in the early 1750s, familiarizing him with Virginia's frontier regions. His work in this role further deepened his understanding of the contested territories between the British colonies and French claims., which would be crucial in his future military role.

• Washington's family was involved with the Ohio Company, which aimed to exploit land west of the Appalachian Mountains. The French encroachment on these lands threatened the company's interests

• Eager for military experience and advancement, Washington pursued a commission in the British Army and secured a position in the Virginia militia as Lieutenant Colonel.

Washington Leads A Massacre - The Battle of Jumonville Glen

Washington was ordered to lead militia troops to protect a work party that was constructing Fort Necessity near present-day Uniontown, Pennsylvania.

• On his way, Washington received intelligence about a French scouting party nearby, led by Joseph Coulon de Villiers, who was on a mission to warn the British to leave the area.

• Washington and his men, along with Mingo chief Tanacharison and his warriors, ambushed the French encampment at dawn. The battle was brief but brutal, and it ended with Chief Tanacharison abruptly burying his hatchet into the French ambassador's skull as he attempted to read a diplomatic message.

• The chief then bathed his hands in the blood and brains of the ambassador as Washington looked on in horror. News of the massacre traveled quickly and soon all of Europe would view Washington as an incompetent and immoral military leader.

The Start of The French and Indian War

The French responded by attacking and forcing Washington to surrender Fort Necessity in July 1754, marking the beginning of the French and Indian War.

After this event:

• George continued getting military leadership experience in the Virginia militia.

• Though a capable leader, this event arguably prevented Washington from ever getting a commission in the British Army.

• George's inability to get a commission left him feeling spurned, setting the stage for him to lead the humble Continental Army twenty years later.

And the rest is history.