The Third and Fourth Anglo-Mysore Wars: A Detailed Analysis of Tipu Sultan's Resistance

The Anglo-Mysore Wars were a series of conflicts between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Mysore in the late 18th century. This post will delve into the Third and Fourth Anglo-Mysore Wars, highlighting the significant events, key figures, and the eventual outcomes of these historical confrontations.

Overview of the Anglo-Mysore Wars

The Anglo-Mysore Wars consisted of four major conflicts:

1. First Anglo-Mysore War (1767-1769): Ended with the Treaty of Madras.
2. Second Anglo-Mysore War (1780-1784): Concluded with the Treaty of Mangalore.
3. Third Anglo-Mysore War (1790-1792): Resulted in the Treaty of Srirangapatnam.
4. Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799): Culminated in the fall of Srirangapatnam.

The Third Anglo-Mysore War (1790-1792)

The Third Anglo-Mysore War began in 1790 and ended in 1792 with the Treaty of Srirangapatnam. The war was primarily instigated by conflicts between Tipu Sultan of Mysore and the Raja of Travancore over territorial disputes, particularly concerning two ports, Jalakotla and Kenor, which were acquired by the Raja from the Dutch. Tipu Sultan viewed this acquisition as a challenge to his authority, leading to his attack on Travancore in April 1790.

Key Events Leading to the War

• Conflict with Travancore: The Raja of Travancore sought assistance from the British East India Company, prompting British intervention.
• Initial Successes: In 1790, Tipu Sultan defeated the British forces led by General Medows, marking a significant early victory for Mysore.
• Cornwallis's Leadership: Following the initial defeat, Governor-General Cornwallis took command in 1791, leading a campaign that captured key territories including Amur, Vellore, and Bangalore, eventually reaching Srirangapatnam, Tipu's capital.

Treaty of Srirangapatnam (1792)

The war concluded with the Treaty of Srirangapatnam, which had significant repercussions:

• Territorial Losses: Almost half of Mysore was ceded to the British, Marathas, and the Nizam of Hyderabad.
• Financial Penalties: Tipu Sultan was required to pay a sum of three crores of rupees, with immediate payment of one and a half crores demanded, leading to the hostage situation of his two sons.

The Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799)

The Fourth Anglo-Mysore War erupted in 1799, following a period of relative peace during which Tipu Sultan consolidated his power after the Treaty of Srirangapatnam. However, tensions escalated due to suspicions of Tipu's alliances with the French and other regional powers.

Key Events of the Fourth War

• British Accusations: The British, under Lord Wellesley, accused Tipu Sultan of plotting against them with the Nizam and Marathas, leading to the declaration of war.
• Battle of Srirangapatnam: The war commenced on April 17, 1799, and concluded with the capture of Srirangapatnam on May 4, 1799. Tipu Sultan was ultimately killed in battle.

Aftermath of the War

• End of Mysore's Independence: Following Tipu's death, the British reinstated a minor ruler from the Wadiyar dynasty, effectively ending Mysore's sovereignty.
• Imposition of Subsidiary Alliance: The British established a system of control over Mysore, requiring the local ruler to maintain British troops and not engage in foreign relations without British consent.

Conclusion

The Third and Fourth Anglo-Mysore Wars were pivotal in shaping the history of India, marking the decline of the Kingdom of Mysore and the expansion of British colonial power. Tipu Sultan's resistance and his efforts to consolidate power, including his alliances and military strategies, remain significant in the narrative of India's struggle against colonialism. His legacy as the "Tiger of Mysore" continues to inspire discussions about resistance and sovereignty in the face of imperialism.