Substantiate the statement-“Carnatic wars strengthened the position of British in India”.

Introduction:

The carnatic region in South India was made a part of Nizam of hyderabad’s dominion. During the same period, England and France were fighting each other in Ausria’s war of succession in Europe. They also came to conflict with each other in India.

Body: 

Carnatic Wars:

Wars Participants Year
First Carnatic War Mughal empire(Nawabs), French, British 1746-48
Second Carnatic War Nasir Jung(Supported by British), Chanda Sahib(Supported by French) 1749-54
Third Carnatic war British & French 1756-1763

Impact:

  • Even after the end of Austrain war, Carnatic wars were continued to be waged in India
  • British supremacy began
  • Bengal became the stronghold of British and also they started to expand in all the directions.
  • French ambitions ended when they agreed to support the British in India
  • French were reduced to small area around Pondicherry
  • British started to meddle with the internal matters of Indian rulers which was evident by the nature of the wars fought

Conclusion:

The weakness of French along with Indian rulers led to supremacy of British in India. French generals had difference of opinion during the war. Military superiority of British was a no match to French. British had strongholds in Calcutta, Bombay and Madras whereas French did not have this advantage. England’s victory in Europe was also a decisive factor in establishing their empire in India.