In March 1757, the British conquered this French Colony in India :

The correct answer is - Chandernagore

Key Points

• Chandernagore
  • Located near Kolkata in West Bengal, Chandernagore was a prominent French colony during the 18th century.
  • In March 1757, British forces under Robert Clive attacked and captured Chandernagore during the ongoing rivalry between the British East India Company and French East India Company.
  • The conquest of Chandernagore was part of the broader strategy of the British to establish dominance in India by eliminating European competitors.
  • This event occurred shortly before the famous Battle of Plassey (June 1757), which solidified British control over Bengal.

Additional Information

• French Colonies in India
  • The French established colonies in India primarily for trade and strategic military purposes.
  • Major French colonies included:
    • Pondicherry: The most significant French settlement in South India.
    • Mahe: Located on the Malabar coast.
    • Karikal: Situated in Tamil Nadu.
    • Chandernagore: Established near Kolkata in Bengal.
  • Unlike other colonies, Chandernagore was primarily focused on trade and had limited military infrastructure, making it easier for the British to conquer.
• Anglo-French Rivalry
  • The British and French competed for supremacy in India during the 17th and 18th centuries.
  • Key conflicts included:
    • The Carnatic Wars: A series of battles fought in South India.
    • The struggle for control over Bengal and other resource-rich regions.
  • By the mid-18th century, the British emerged victorious, establishing dominance over French territories like Chandernagore.
• Battle of Plassey
  • The Battle of Plassey (1757) occurred shortly after the British conquest of Chandernagore.
  • It marked a decisive victory for the British East India Company against Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal.
  • This victory gave the British control over Bengal, paving the way for their eventual dominance across India.