Modern History - All lessons
THE FRENCH
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Formation of the French East India Company: In 1664, under the patronage of Jean-Baptiste Colbert, the French East India Company was established. This marked the beginning of French involvement in India's trade and colonial affairs.
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Early Establishments and Factories: The first French factory was established in Surat in 1668 by François Caron. Later, Maracara set up another factory at Masulipatam in 1669. These early establishments laid the foundation for French activities on the Indian subcontinent.
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Pondicherry: A Growing Presence: A small village, Valikondapuram, was acquired by François Martin and Bellanger de Lespinay in 1673. Over time, this village transformed into Pondicherry, a significant French settlement. Francois Martin became its first governor.
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Expansion and Acquisitions: Chandernagore in Bengal was acquired from the Mughal governor in 1690. Despite facing periods of decline between 1706 and 1720, the French presence in India was reinvigorated under leaders like Lenoir and Dumas (governors) between 1720 and 1742.
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Territorial Holdings: The French gradually expanded their territorial holdings in India. They occupied Mahe in the Malabar and Yanam in Coromandel (both in 1725) as well as Karikal in Tamil Nadu (1739).
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Anglo-French Conflicts and Decline: The arrival of Dupleix as the French governor in India in 1742 marked the beginning of Anglo-French conflicts, including the Carnatic wars. These conflicts ultimately led to the decline of French influence and power in India.
The French arrival and subsequent activities in India left a lasting impact on the colonial history of the subcontinent, contributing to the complex interactions among various European powers and their influence on the region.