The Anglo-Mysore Wars were a series of conflicts fought between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Mysore in southern India during the 18th century. The wars were primarily driven by territorial ambitions, economic interests, and the strategic importance of the region. The first Anglo-Mysore War (1767–1769) erupted when the ruler of Mysore, Hyder Ali, sought to challenge British influence in the Deccan. The conflict ended inconclusively with the Treaty of Madras.
The second war (1780–1784) was marked by the leadership of Hyder Ali’s son, Tipu Sultan, who proved to be a formidable opponent. Tipu Sultan formed alliances with other regional powers and inflicted significant losses on the British. The conflict concluded with the Treaty of Mangalore, restoring the status quo.
The third and final Anglo-Mysore War (1798–1799) was triggered by Tipu Sultan’s refusal to align with the British against Napoleon. The British, led by General George Harris and assisted by the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Marathas, besieged Srirangapatna, the capital of Mysore. The war culminated in the death of Tipu Sultan during the siege, and the subsequent Treaty of Seringapatam in 1799. As a result, large parts of Mysore were annexed by the British, and the Wodeyar dynasty was reinstated under British suzerainty. The Anglo-Mysore Wars significantly reshaped the political landscape of southern India, solidifying British dominance in the region.
Mysore’s Resistance to the Company
Company The Wodeyar / Mysore Dynasty
- After the devastating battle of Talikota in 1565, which led to the downfall of the Vijayanagara Empire, several smaller kingdoms emerged from its remnants. In 1612, the Wodeyar dynasty established a Hindu kingdom in the region of Mysore. Chikka Krishnaraja Wodeyar II ruled over Mysore from 1734 to 1766. However, in the latter half of the 18th century, Mysore grew into a formidable power under the leadership of Haidar Ali and his son, Tipu Sultan.
- The presence and growing strength of Mysore became a cause of concern for the English, as they perceived a threat to their political and commercial interests in South India. Mysore’s proximity to the French and its control over the lucrative trade of the Malabar coast further heightened the English’s apprehensions. The English also saw Mysore’s power as a challenge to their control over Madras (present-day Chennai).
Rise of Haidar Ali
- During the early 18th century, two brothers named Nanjaraj and Devaraj held significant control over Chikka Krishnaraja Wodeyar, reducing him to a mere puppet ruler. Haidar Ali, born in 1721 to a humble family, began his career as a horseman in the Mysore army under the leadership of Nanjaraj and Devaraj.
- Despite lacking formal education, Haidar Ali possessed remarkable intellect, energy, and determination. The repeated invasions by the Marathas and Nizam’s forces into Mysore weakened the kingdom financially and politically. Mysore required a leader with strong military prowess and diplomatic skills, and Haidar Ali emerged to fulfill that role. In 1761, he seized royal authority and became the de facto ruler of Mysore.
- Recognizing the need to counter the highly mobile Marathas, Haidar Ali focused on developing a swift cavalry. He understood that the French-trained Nizami army’s cannons could be neutralized through effective artillery, and that matching the superior Western arms required obtaining similar weaponry or manufacturing them using Western knowledge. Haidar Ali sought the assistance of the French to establish an arms factory in Dindigul (now in Tamil Nadu) and introduced Western training methods for his army. Additionally, he utilized his diplomatic skills to outmaneuver his adversaries.
- With his military prowess, Haidar Ali captured several territories, including Dod Ballapur, Sera, Bednur, and Hoskote from 1761 to 1763. He also brought the troublesome Poligars (local chieftains) of South India under his control. However, the Marathas, recovering from their defeat at Panipat, launched multiple attacks on Mysore and defeated Haidar Ali in 1764, 1766, and 1771. To secure peace, Haidar Ali had to pay large sums of money to the Marathas. Yet, after the death of Madhavrao, the Maratha ruler, in 1772, Haidar Ali launched raids against the Marathas from 1774 to 1776, reclaiming the territories he had lost and capturing new areas.
- The English, having achieved success in Bengal, were confident in their military strength. They formed a treaty with the Nizam of Hyderabad in 1766, promising to protect him from Haidar Ali in exchange for the Northern Circars region. Haidar Ali already had territorial disputes with the Nawab of Arcot and conflicts with the Marathas.
Changing Alliances
- Facing the combined forces of the Nizam, the Marathas, and the English, Haidar Ali displayed adeptness in diplomacy. He employed his diplomatic skills to navigate the complex political landscape. Haidar Ali offered monetary incentives to the Marathas, persuading them to remain neutral in the conflict. Additionally, he allied with the Nizam by promising to share the territories they conquered together.
- With the Nizam as his ally, Haidar Ali joined forces with them to launch an attack on the Nawab of Arcot. This strategic move not only showcased Haidar Ali’s ability to forge alliances but also demonstrated his military prowess and ambition to expand his influence in the region. By leveraging diplomatic tactics and alliances, Haidar Ali effectively countered the formidable coalition aligned against him.
Course of War
- The prolonged war between Haidar Ali and the English, along with their allies, stretched on for approximately 18 months without a decisive outcome. Recognizing the need for a change in strategy, Haidar Ali executed a surprising move by swiftly advancing towards the gates of Madras, the English stronghold. The sudden appearance of Haidar Ali’s forces caused chaos and panic among the English defenders.
- In the face of this unexpected development, the English were compelled to negotiate a treaty with Haidar Ali on April 4, 1769. This treaty, known as the Treaty of Madras, was considered highly humiliating for the English. Its terms included provisions for the exchange of prisoners and the restoration of conquered territories to their respective owners. Additionally, the treaty assured Haidar Ali of English support in the event of any future attacks by external powers.
- The Treaty of Madras marked a significant turning point in the war, highlighting Haidar Ali’s ability to leverage his military strength and diplomatic maneuvers to secure favorable terms from the English. The treaty provided him with a temporary respite and the assurance of assistance from the English, thus altering the dynamics of the conflict in his favor.
Second Anglo-Mysore War (1780-84)
Background
- Haidar Ali became increasingly disillusioned with the English due to what he perceived as their betrayal and failure to honor the Treaty of Madras. In 1771, when he was attacked by the Marathas, Haidar Ali expected the English to come to his aid as promised in the treaty. However, the English did not fulfill their obligation, leading him to accuse them of breaching their faith.
- During this time, Haidar Ali observed that the French provided more support and assistance to his army compared to the English. He found the French to be more reliable in supplying his army with essential resources such as guns, saltpeter, and lead. Through the French possession of Mahe on the Malabar coast, Haidar Ali managed to acquire French war materials, further strengthening his ties with the French.
- The outbreak of the American War of Independence, in which the French supported the rebels against the English, heightened Haidar Ali’s association with the French and caused additional concern for the English. In response, the English attempted to capture Mahe, which Haidar Ali considered to be under his protection. He interpreted this English action as a direct challenge to his authority, further exacerbating the strained relationship between Haidar Ali and the English.
Course of War
- Following the forging of an anti-English alliance with the Marathas and the Nizam, Haidar Ali launched an attack in the Carnatic region. He successfully captured Arcot and achieved a significant victory by defeating the English army led by Colonel Baillie in 1781. However, the English, under the leadership of Sir Eyre Coote, managed to detach both the Marathas and the Nizam from Haidar Ali’s alliance.
- Despite facing setbacks, Haidar Ali remained undeterred and confronted the English forces with determination. However, he suffered a defeat at Porto Novo in November 1781. Nevertheless, he regrouped his forces and staged a counteroffensive against the English, resulting in the capture of their commander, Braithwaite.
Treaty of Mangalore
- After the death of Haidar Ali on December 7, 1782, his son Tipu Sultan took over the leadership and continued the war for another year. However, despite his efforts, no significant progress was made. Frustrated with the prolonged and inconclusive conflict, both sides decided to pursue peace negotiations.
- In March 1784, the Treaty of Mangalore was signed between the English East India Company and Tipu Sultan. According to the treaty, each party agreed to return the territories they had captured from the other during the war. This marked the end of hostilities and a return to the pre-war territorial boundaries. The treaty brought a temporary halt to the conflict between the English and Tipu Sultan, establishing a period of relative peace in the region.
Third Anglo-Mysore War
- In April 1790, Tipu Sultan declared war against the state of Travancore due to a dispute over the acquisition of territories by Travancore from the Dutch in the Cochin state. Travancore had purchased Jalkottal and Cannanore, which were considered part of Tipu’s domain as Cochin was a feudatory of Mysore. Tipu viewed this act as a violation of his sovereign rights and sought to restore his authority.
- Thus, the Third Anglo-Mysore War began as Tipu Sultan launched a military campaign against Travancore to reclaim the disputed territories and assert his control over the region. The conflict between Tipu Sultan and Travancore would eventually draw the attention and involvement of the British East India Company, leading to their intervention in the war.
Course of War
- During the Third Anglo-Mysore War, the English, supporting Travancore, launched an attack against Tipu Sultan and his forces. In 1790, Tipu Sultan achieved a victory over the English under General Meadows. However, in 1791, General Cornwallis assumed command and led a large British army through Ambur and Vellore to Bangalore, which was captured in March 1791. The British forces continued their advance towards Seringapatam, the capital of Mysore.
- Although the British initially captured Coimbatore, they eventually lost it. However, with the support of the Marathas and the Nizam, the English launched a second attack on Seringapatam. Tipu Sultan fiercely resisted the English forces, but the overwhelming odds were against him. As a result, he had to bear heavy consequences under the terms of the Treaty of Seringapatam.
- The Treaty of Seringapatam, signed in 1792, concluded the Third Anglo-Mysore War. Under the treaty, Tipu Sultan had to cede a significant portion of his territories, including half of his kingdom, to the English East India Company and its allies. He also had to pay a large war indemnity, surrender hostages, and accept British control over his foreign relations. The treaty severely weakened Tipu Sultan’s power and marked a major setback for Mysore.
Treaty of Seringapatam
- The Treaty of Seringapatam, signed in 1792, resulted in significant territorial losses for Tipu Sultan and the Mysore Kingdom. The victorious parties, including the English East India Company, the Marathas, and the Nizam, acquired different regions of Mysore.
- According to the terms of the treaty, the English gained control over Baramahal, Dindigul, and Malabar. The Marathas received territories surrounding the Tungabhadra River and its tributaries, while the Nizam obtained areas extending from the Krishna River to beyond the Pennar River. Additionally, Tipu Sultan was required to pay a war indemnity of three crore rupees.
- As per the treaty, half of the war indemnity was to be paid immediately, and the remaining amount was to be paid in installments. To ensure compliance, Tipu Sultan’s two sons were taken as hostages by the English. The treaty severely weakened Mysore and significantly reduced Tipu Sultan’s authority and resources.
Fourth Anglo-Mysore War
Background
- The period between 1792 and 1799 was a time of recovery and consolidation for both the English East India Company and Tipu Sultan of Mysore. Tipu Sultan fulfilled the terms of the Treaty of Seringapatam, which resulted in the release of his sons who were held as hostages. However, tensions continued to rise between Tipu Sultan and the English. In 1796, upon the death of the Hindu ruler of the Wodeyar dynasty, Tipu Sultan refused to place the minor son of the ruler on the throne and declared himself sultan instead. This further strained the relationship between Tipu Sultan and the English. In 1798, Lord Wellesley took office as the new Governor General of India, succeeding Sir John Shore. Wellesley, being an imperialist, was concerned about Tipu Sultan’s growing friendship with the French and aimed to either eliminate Tipu’s independent rule or bring him under submission through the implementation of the Subsidiary Alliance system. Accusations were made against Tipu Sultan, claiming that he was plotting against the English with the Nizam and the Marathas. It was also alleged that he had sent emissaries to various places such as Arabia, Afghanistan, Kabul, Zaman Shah, Isle of France (Mauritius), and Versailles, with intentions deemed treasonous by the English. Despite Tipu Sultan’s explanations, Lord Wellesley remained unsatisfied and the stage was set for further confrontation between Tipu Sultan and the English.
Course of War
- The combined forces of the English, Marathas, and Nizam besieged Seringapatam, the capital of Mysore. Despite Tipu Sultan’s fierce resistance, the fortifications of Seringapatam were breached, and the English forces, led by General Harris, ultimately emerged victorious. During the battle, Tipu Sultan fought valiantly but was overwhelmed by the superior numbers and firepower of the Allied forces. On May 4, 1799, Seringapatam fell into the hands of the English, and Tipu Sultan died amid the battle. The loss of their leader and the capture of the city marked the end of Mysore’s independent existence. Following the defeat, the English took control of Mysore and annexed significant portions of the territory. The Marathas and the Nizam also claimed their share of the conquered lands, as per the previous agreements made with the English. The Fourth Anglo-Mysore War concluded with the complete subjugation of Mysore under British rule, ending Tipu Sultan’s resistance and securing English dominance over the region.
Estimate of Tipu Sultan
- Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, was a complex and significant figure in Indian history. He possessed several notable qualities and made contributions in various fields.
- As a military leader, Tipu Sultan was renowned for his bravery and strategic acumen. He paid great attention to building and maintaining a strong military force, organizing it along European lines and incorporating Persian terminology. While he sought assistance from French officers to train his soldiers, he maintained his independence from any external influence. He also recognized the importance of naval power and made plans for a substantial fleet, although these plans were not fully realized.
- In addition to his military achievements, Tipu Sultan was a patron of science and technology. He is credited with pioneering rocket technology in India and authored a military manual on the subject. He also promoted sericulture and introduced it to the Mysore State. This demonstrates his interest in advancements and innovation.
- Tipu Sultan’s political outlook and diplomacy were also noteworthy. He showed support for the French soldiers in establishing a Jacobin Club and became a member himself, adopting the title of Citizen Tipu. However, it is important to note that historical accounts of Tipu Sultan’s views on democracy and his relationship with the French should be interpreted with caution, as they may reflect colonial perspectives.
- There are contrasting views on Tipu Sultan’s religious policies. While some colonial historians depicted him as a bigoted monarch, it is crucial to consider the historical context and the complexities of his rule. Tipu Sultan did engage in military conflicts with certain Hindu and Muslim groups, but he also protected Hindu temples within his own kingdom and allocated funds for temple repairs. It is important to approach these historical judgments with an understanding of the complexities of religious dynamics during that era.
- Furthermore, Tipu Sultan is recognized for his efforts in promoting economic development. He encouraged capitalist practices, which were emerging alongside the prevailing feudal system at the time.
- Overall, Tipu Sultan’s legacy is multifaceted, encompassing his military prowess, patronage of science and technology, political outlook, and economic initiatives. Evaluating his character and actions requires an appreciation of the historical context and a nuanced understanding of the multiple traditions and complexities of his rule.
Mysore After Tipu
- After the death of Tipu Sultan, the Mysore Kingdom underwent significant changes in its territorial control and governance. Here is a summary of the key developments:
- Maratha Refusal: Lord Wellesley, the Governor-General, offered the districts of Soonda and Harponelly to the Marathas as per the Treaty of Seringapatam, but they declined the offer.
- Nizam’s Territory: The districts of Gooty and Gurramkonda were given to the Nizam of Hyderabad, further consolidating the British influence in the region.
- British Control: The English took control of several territories, including Kanara, Wynad, Coimbatore, Dwaraporam, and Seringapatam. These areas became part of British India and were administered by the British East India Company.
- Return of Wodeyars: The old Hindu dynasty, the Wodeyars, was reinstated in Mysore under the rule of a minor ruler named Krishnaraja III. The Wodeyars accepted the subsidiary alliance imposed by the British, which meant they had to acknowledge British authority and maintain a British resident at their court.
- British Intervention: In 1831, William Bentinck, the Governor-General, took direct control of Mysore, citing misgovernance as the reason. The kingdom was administered by British officials during this period.
- Restoration of the Kingdom: In 1881, Lord Ripon, another Governor-General, restored the kingdom to its ruler, marking the end of direct British control. The Wodeyar dynasty continued to rule Mysore, albeit under the oversight of the British administration.
- These changes reflected the shifting dynamics of power and control in the region, with the British gradually asserting their dominance and reshaping the political landscape of Mysore.
Views
- Different views exist regarding Tipu Sultan and his role in Indian history. Mohibbul Hasan’s perspective highlights that in the era when Tipu Sultan ruled, there was no concept of nationalism or a collective Indian identity. According to this view, Tipu Sultan’s primary motive in his battles against the English was to safeguard his own power and independence rather than fighting for India’s freedom.
- On the other hand, Lieutenant Moore’s observation portrays a positive image of Tipu Sultan’s kingdom, emphasizing its prosperous and flourishing state. This perspective appreciates the advancements in agriculture, population, trade, and urban development under Tipu Sultan’s rule.
- It’s important to note that historical interpretations can vary, and different historians may have contrasting viewpoints based on their analysis of available evidence and contextual understanding. The evaluation of Tipu Sultan’s legacy involves considering multiple perspectives and examining various historical sources to form a comprehensive understanding of his reign and its significance in Indian history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What were the main causes of the Anglo-Mysore Wars?
A1: The Anglo-Mysore Wars were primarily fueled by territorial disputes, economic interests, and the geopolitical ambitions of both the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Mysore. The control over lucrative trade routes and resources in southern India, coupled with the expansionist policies of both parties, led to a series of conflicts.
Q2: Who were the key figures in the Anglo-Mysore Wars?
A2: One prominent figure was Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, who played a central role in resisting British expansion. On the British side, notable figures included Governor-General Warren Hastings, Lord Cornwallis, and later, Sir Arthur Wellesley (the future Duke of Wellington), who played a crucial role in the later stages of the wars.
Q3: What were the outcomes of the Anglo-Mysore Wars?
A3: The outcomes of the Anglo-Mysore Wars had significant consequences for both parties. The Treaty of Seringapatam (1792) marked the end of the third war and resulted in the ceding of territories by Tipu Sultan to the British. The Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1798–1799) ended with the death of Tipu Sultan and the annexation of Mysore by the British East India Company. These wars solidified British influence in southern India and contributed to the expansion of the British colonial empire on the Indian subcontinent.
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