Modern History - All lessons

Second Anglo-Mysore War (1780-84) causes, results, treaties

Causes of the Second Anglo-Mysore Wars:

The Second Anglo-Mysore Wars were fueled by a complex interplay of geopolitical factors, diplomatic breaches, and shifting alliances. These causes shed light on the escalating tensions between Mysore, led by the formidable Haider Ali, and the British East India Company. The sequence of events that unfolded underscored the intricate dynamics that led to these conflicts:

1. Treaty Breach and Accusations: The seeds of discontent were sown when the British failed to uphold the Treaty of Madras, a pact designed to maintain peaceful relations. This breach was starkly evident when the Maratha army attacked Mysore in 1771, exposing the British disregard for the agreed-upon terms. Haider Ali, perceiving this as a breach of faith, felt justified in his growing mistrust of British intentions.

2. French Alliance and Resourceful Support: Haider Ali's growing disillusionment with British commitment was accentuated by his recognition of the French as a more resourceful ally. The French proved adept at meeting Mysore's military needs, providing crucial supplies of guns, saltpetre, and lead. The practical support offered by the French played a pivotal role in swaying Haider Ali's allegiance.

3. French Involvement via Mahe: As part of their support, the French established a significant presence in Mahe, a possession on the Malabar Coast. Haider Ali leveraged this connection to import vital war materials into Mysore. This burgeoning relationship between Mysore and the French raised alarm bells for the British, who perceived it as a strategic threat to their interests in the region.

4. British Concern and Aggressive Moves: The deepening friendship between Mysore and the French prompted the British to take proactive measures to safeguard their own position. In response, the British East India Company set its sights on capturing Mahe, which was under the protection of Haider Ali. This aggressive move not only aimed to curb French influence but also to weaken Haider Ali's power base.

In summary, the causes of the Second Anglo-Mysore Wars stemmed from a series of interconnected events, including the British breach of the Treaty of Madras, Haider Ali's disillusionment and alliance with the resourceful French, the strategic importance of Mahe, and the British response to counteract the growing influence of the French in the region. These causes collectively set the stage for a series of conflicts that would shape the course of history in the Indian subcontinent.

Timeline of the Second Anglo-Mysore War:

The Second Anglo-Mysore War was a complex series of events that unfolded over a span of years, marked by strategic alliances, battles, and shifting dynamics. The timeline below outlines the key stages of this significant conflict:

1. Alliance Formation and Early Offensives (1779-1780):

   • Haidar Ali forms an alliance with the Marathas and the Nizam against the British, aiming to challenge their influence.
   • Haidar Ali launches an attack on the Carnatic, capturing the crucial city of Arcot and achieving a victory over the English army led by Colonel Baillie in 1781.

2. British Counteroffensive (1781-1782):

   • The English, under the leadership of Sir Eyre Coote, manage to detach both the Marathas and the Nizam from Haidar Ali's coalition.
   • Haidar Ali, undeterred by these setbacks, confronts the English forces in a bold manner, leading to a defeat at Porto Novo in November 1781.
   • Despite the defeat, Haidar Ali regroups his forces and achieves a significant victory by defeating the English and capturing their commander, Braithwaite.

3. Continuation and Demise of Haidar Ali (1782-1784):

   • Haidar Ali, battling against cancer, passes away on December 7, 1782, leaving the leadership to his son, Tipu Sultan.
   • Tipu Sultan continues the war effort for a year, but despite his efforts, the conflict remains inconclusive.

4. Treaty of Mangalore and Resolution (March 1784):

   • With both sides growing weary of the prolonged conflict, negotiations for peace commence.
   • The Treaty of Mangalore is established in March 1784, ending the hostilities. As per the treaty, both parties agree to return the territories they had taken from each other during the course of the war.

In summary, the Second Anglo-Mysore War unfolded through a series of stages, encompassing strategic alliances, battles, shifting loyalties, and eventual negotiations for peace. The conflict's dynamic nature and the resolution through the Treaty of Mangalore highlight the complexities of power struggles in the Indian subcontinent during the 18th century