The Third Carnatic War Modern Indian History UPSC Notes

The Third Carnatic War was fought between the British and the French from 1758 to 1763. The war was fought as part of the Seven Years’ War between Britain and France. The Third Carnatic War destroyed the French dreams of establishing a colonial empire in India. This article will provide you with information about the Third Carnatic War and how it is relevant to studying Modern Indian History for the UPSC Civil Service Exam.

Causes of the Third Carnatic War

After the Second Carnatic War, the British were in a strong position and the French Company was in a strong disadvantage. The East India Company was not willing to give up what it had gained during the war, but the French were eager to regain their lost territories and ground.

When Austria sought to retake Silesia in 1756, the Seven Years’ War (1756–63) broke out throughout Europe. This triggered a new round of fighting between the British and French forces in India.

Events of the Third Carnatic War

To drive the British out of India, the French government sent Count-de-Lally to India in April 1758. After capturing Fort St. David, he attacked Madras, conquering almost the entire city except for Madras town. At this time, he committed a blunder. He called Bussy from Hyderabad, giving the British an opportunity to take Northern Sircars.

In the Battle of Wandiwash, the British defeated the French which took place in Vandavasi, Tamil Nadu. On January 22, 1760, the English won the crucial battle of the Third Carnatic War at Wandiwash. It was difficult for the French led by Comte de Lally to retake Vandavasi due to a lack of naval support and funds. In 1760, he was defeated at Wandiwash by English forces under Sir Eyre Coote.

A number of French possessions in India were lost to the British, including Pondicherry, Mahe, Gingee, and Karaikal. The war ended with the Treaty of Paris in 1763.

Results of the Third Carnatic War

In 1763, Great Britain, France, Spain, and Portugal signed the Treaty of Paris, also known as the Treaty of 1763, following Great Britain’s victory over France and Spain during the Seven Years’ War.

The treaty of Paris stipulated that the French settlements would be returned, however, the French should not build fortifications. As well as that, both sides would exchange prisoners of war. The French would not have any forces in Bengal.

It was clear that Britain would establish colonial rule in India after the French hopes of building an empire were dashed.

There was no question of French dominance in India, as they remained only traders, and their activity was only restricted to South India. In the Deccan, there was no question of British supremacy.