Manjirabad
Gunpowder was invented in China,
possibly as early as the 9th century, during the Tang Dynasty, possibly by
alchemists seeking an elixir of immortality. The earliest documented formula for gunpowder
dates back to the 11th century, during the Song Dynasty, found in the Wujing Zongyao.
Initially used in fireworks, fire arrows, and primitive bombs, its military
potential was soon realized. European forts evolved from early timber and
earthwork structures in the 9th century to elaborate stone castles with defensive walls and
towers, eventually incorporating Renaissance-era advancements like bastions and moats. The
introduction of cannons in the 14th century led to fortifications with lower profiles,
earthworks, and ditches to absorb cannon fire. French forts evolved from simple wooden structures
to complex, geometrically designed fortresses, reflecting advancements in military technology
and defensive strategies. Early fortifications focused on natural defenses and wooden structures,
like mottes and baileys, which later evolved into stone castles with bastions and citadels.
The introduction of gunpowder and artillery led to the development of more sophisticated
designs, including star-shaped fortresses and layered defenses, culminating in the work of
Vauban, who perfected the art of fortification with his star fortresses and defensive systems
Simple wooden structures on artificial mounds, surrounded by ditches and palisades, were
common in the 9th and 10th centuries. By the 11th and 12th centuries, stone castles with
keeps, walls, and towers became more prevalent, offering greater protection against attacks.
The 16th century saw the rise of bastions – angled projections built into the walls – to eliminate
dead zones and allow for flanking fire. Italian military engineers introduced
systematic approaches to fortification, including angled bastions, low walls,
and earthen features, which were later adopted and improved by French engineers.
Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, a renowned military engineer, perfected the star-shaped
fortress, characterized by angled bastions, interconnected networks, and layered defenses.
Vauban’s designs emphasized defense in depth, using multiple lines of fortifications to weaken
attacking forces. Vauban strategically positioned his fortresses to control key routes and
territories, often incorporating natural features like rivers and hills into his designs.
Examples: The Fortifications of Vauban, a UNESCO
World Heritage site, includes citadels, urban walls, and mountain forts, showcasing
the peak of classical fortifications. 19th and 20th Centuries:
New Technologies: The advent of powerful artillery and high-explosive shells led
to further adaptations in fortification design. Séré de Rivières System: In the late 19th century,
France developed the Séré de Rivières system, which involved moving forts further
from cities, creating rings of forts to cover the intervals between them.
Concrete and Iron: Concrete and reinforced concrete were increasingly
used in fortifications, along with the development of armored rotating turrets.
Dispersed Forts: German theorists proposed dispersing fort artillery and infantry
positions, connected by trenches and tunnels, rather than relying on a continuous enceinte.
The French colonial empire started in 1524 when an explorer named Verrazzano arrived
in North America. The first lasting French colony was established in 1605, however.
The French colonial empire fell due to a wave of revolutions in the mid-1900s. After the Second
World War, France was exhausted and indebted. The French colonial empire lasted from
the early 1500s to the mid-1900s. It took different shapes over this period, however.
French colonization in the East, particularly in India and Southeast Asia, stemmed from a late but
ambitious push by the French monarchy to compete with established colonial powers like the Dutch
and British. Driven by the desire for economic gain, particularly access to valuable commodities
like spices, and fueled by the prevailing 17th and 18th-century European mindset of “civilizing”
other parts of the world, France established trading posts and later territorial claims.
Key aspects of the European background: Latecomer to the East:
Unlike the Dutch and British, who had established strong presences in the
East Indies and India by the early 17th century, France was a relative latecomer.
East India Company: King Louis XIV, influenced by his minister
Colbert, established the French East India Company in 1664 to compete with other European powers.
Economic Motives: The primary driver was to secure trade routes
and acquire valuable goods like spices, silks, and other luxury items from the East.
Colonial Competition: France aimed to challenge the existing dominance
of the British and Dutch in the Indian Ocean trade and establish its own colonial empire.
“Civilizing Mission”: The French, like other European powers, justified
their expansion by claiming a duty to “civilize” the “backward” peoples of the East, a concept
rooted in racism and European exceptionalism. Trading Posts and Territories:
The French established trading posts in India, such as Surat, Masulipatam, and Chandernagore, and
later expanded their influence to other parts of Southeast Asia, including Indochina.
Limited Success: Despite their efforts, the French colonial empire
in the East remained smaller and less influential than the British empire, particularly in India.
Persistence in the Indian Ocean: France maintained some territories in the
Indian Ocean, including Réunion and Pondicherry. The French colonial empire consisted of
the overseas colonies, protectorates, and mandate territories that came
under French rule from the 16th century A French colony comprising five geographically
separated enclaves on the Indian subcontinent that had initially been factories
of the French East India Company. France probably could have become
the leading European colonial power in the 17th and 18th centuries. It had the
largest population and wealth. the best army Along with Portugal, Spain and England,
France began developing new sea routes from Europe to India and East Asia.
The kingdom of France at the beginning of the 16th century was one of if not
the most powerful nations in Europe. France reached its first peak
in the 1700s with New France and expansion in India, despite its late arrival.
UK and France still hold overseas territories despite decolonization, including islands in the
Caribbean, Pacific, Atlantic, and Mediterranean. Origins of French colonialism in India.
The first French venture to Indian was around the 16th century when expeditions
were sent to India for trade purposes. The Middle East and North Africa were central
regions in the history of modern French colonialism. France’s second colonial
empire was founded in Algeria in 1830. The French colonial empire was vast. During its
first phase, France established colonies in North America and expanded its trade influence in India.
These are results for rise and fall of french colonial empire in india
The Rise and Fall of French East India Company – History Of India
The French colonial empire in India rose due to the establishment of the French
East India Company and its trading posts, but ultimately declined due to rivalry with the
British and military defeats. While the Treaty of Paris in 1763 marked the end of French colonial
rule, they retained a few territories until 1954. Rise: Early Presence:
The French East India Company was established in 1664, and they set up trading
posts in Surat (1668) and Pondicherry (1674). Expansion: The French expanded their influence
by establishing settlements and factories along the Indian coast, including Pondicherry,
Karaikal, Mahe, Yanam, and Chandernagore. Carnatic Wars: The French and British East India
Companies clashed in a series of conflicts known as the Carnatic Wars (1746-1763) for dominance in
India, with the French initially gaining ground. Fall: British Dominance:
The British East India Company, with greater resources and naval power,
eventually gained the upper hand. Treaty of Paris (1763):
This treaty concluded the Seven Years’ War and forced France to cede
most of its Indian territories to Britain. Continued Presence:
Despite the treaty, France retained a few enclaves like Pondicherry, which
were eventually transferred to India in 1954. Final Transfer:
France officially relinquished its remaining Indian territories in 1954 and 1962,
when the French and Indian governments ratified a treaty confirming the transfer.
Carnatic Wars 1749-1763: First, Second And Third Carnatic Wars.
The Carnatic Wars ,1746-1763, were a series of conflicts in South India between
the British and French East India Companies, with the French initially gaining the upper hand.
These wars were driven by European rivalry and competition for control over trade and territory
in India. Ultimately, the British emerged as the dominant colonial power, significantly
shaping the future of British rule in India. The Carnatic Wars were part of a larger global
power struggle between Britain and France, which extended to their colonial interests in India.
Initial French Success: The French, under leaders like Dupleix,
initially achieved notable victories, including the capture of Madras.
Shifting Power: The British, through strategic alliances
with Indian rulers and military successes, gradually gained the upper hand.
Key Battles: The Battle of Adyar (during the First Carnatic
War on October 24, 1746) highlighted the military superiority of European forces over Indian armies.
End of French Ambitions: The Third Carnatic War, particularly the
Battle of Wandiwash, 22 January 1760 ,marked a turning point, leading to the decline of French
influence and the consolidation of British power. Long-Term Impact:
The Carnatic Wars paved the way for the British East India Company’s dominance and the eventual
establishment of British colonial rule in India. Tipu Sultan, Ruler of Mysore, Military Campaigns
and Wars :Tipu Sultan, also known as the Tiger of Mysore, was a prominent figure in the Anglo-Mysore
Wars, a series of conflicts between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Mysore.
The Carnatic Wars primarily involved the British and French East India Companies,
while the Anglo-Mysore Wars involved the British and the Kingdom of Mysore.
Tippu actively participated in these expantionist wars of Mysore , alongside his father, Hyder Ali,
and later as the ruler of Mysore. Tipu’s military prowess was evident in battles like the Battle of
Pollilur, where he defeated the British forces. Tipu Sultan’s Role in the Anglo-Mysore Wars:
Early Involvement: Tipu Sultan gained military experience from a young age, participating
in campaigns with his father, Hyder Ali, including the invasion of Malabar in 1766.
First Anglo-Mysore War ,1767-1769: Tipu fought alongside his father against
the British and their allies, demonstrating his military and diplomatic skills.
Second Anglo-Mysore War, 1780-1784: Tipu achieved a significant victory at
the Battle of Pollilur, where he defeated Colonel William Baillie’s forces.
Third Anglo-Mysore War ,1790-1792: Tipu faced the British again,
eventually losing half of his dominion in the Treaty of Seringapatam.
Fourth Anglo-Mysore War ,1799: Tipu Sultan was ultimately defeated and
killed in the final war, marking the end of Mysore’s independence.
Key Events and Battles: Battle of Pollilur:
A notable victory for Tipu Sultan, where he inflicted heavy casualties on the British forces.
Treaty of Mangalore: Signed in 1784, this treaty ended the Second
Anglo-Mysore War, with both sides agreeing to restore territories.
Treaty of Seringapatam: Concluded the Third Anglo-Mysore War, forcing Tipu
to cede significant territories to the British. Siege of Seringapatam:
The final battle where Tipu Sultan was killed, and Mysore came under British control.
Tipu Sultan’s Legacy: Tipu Sultan is remembered for his military
leadership, innovative use of rockets in warfare, and his resistance against the British. He
modernized the Mysore army and introduced various administrative reforms. His conflicts
with the British East India Company significantly shaped the political landscape of South India.
Sultan Haider Ali – Aal-e-Qutub Aal-e-Syed Abdullah Shah GhaziHyder Ali and Tipu Sultan,
rulers of the Kingdom of Mysore, had a complex relationship with the French, particularly
during the Anglo-Mysore Wars. Initially, Hyder Ali forged an alliance with the French, utilizing
their expertise in military technology and even employing French workmen in his arsenal.
Tipu Sultan, Hyder Ali’s son and successor, continued this alliance, seeking French support in
his conflicts with the British East India Company. However, the evolving political landscape in
Europe, particularly the end of hostilities between France and Britain, often led to shifts in
French policy, impacting their support for Mysore. Here’s a more detailed look:
Hyder Ali and the French: Hyder Ali recognized the growing power of the
British and sought alliances to counter them. He allied with the French and employed French
engineers and workmen in his army and arsenal. French expertise was particularly
valuable in developing Mysore’s artillery and military technology.
Hyder Ali’s alliance with the French played a crucial role in his early successes
against the British, particularly in the Second Anglo-Mysore War.
Tipu Sultan and the French: Tipu Sultan inherited his father’s alliance with
the French and continued to seek their support. He recognized the importance of French
military technology and sought to modernize his army with their assistance.
Tipu also established trade depots in French territories and engaged
in diplomatic missions to France. However, the shifting political landscape
in Europe often led to a weakening of the French commitment to Mysore.
The Treaty of Versailles in 1783, ending hostilities between France and Britain,
resulted in the withdrawal of French support for Mysore, impacting Tipu’s war efforts.
Despite the withdrawal of direct military support, Tipu continued to seek French assistance and
diplomatic ties, even sending embassies to France. Ultimately, the French were hesitant to fully
commit to an alliance that could jeopardize their own interests in Europe and India.
Impact of French Involvement: French involvement significantly impacted
the Anglo-Mysore Wars, providing Mysore with valuable military expertise and support.
However, the changing dynamics of European politics often led to a weakening of the
alliance and impacted the course of the wars. The French withdrawal of support forced
Tipu Sultan to negotiate peace treaties with the British on unfavorable terms.
Despite the challenges, Tipu Sultan’s use of French technology, particularly in rocketry,
had a lasting impact on military technology, influencing the development of the
Congreve rocket, according to Wikipedia. Manjarabad: India’s only
star-shaped fort designed by French. Manjarabad Fort, located in Karnataka, India,
is a unique star-shaped fort designed by Tipu Sultan in 1792. It is the only fort
in India with this specific design, inspired by the French star-shaped fort designs
popularized by Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. The fort’s design, with its arrow-head shaped
bastions, allows for a 360-degree view of the surrounding area (全 coverage)and
minimizes blind spots for defending forces. Manjarabad Fort, a star-shaped fortress in
Karnataka, India, was built by Tipu Sultan in 1792, with the assistance of French military
architects, during a period of conflict with the British East India Company. The fort’s design,
influenced by French military architecture, was intended to provide strategic
defense and surveillance capabilities. Key Details:
Construction: Built in 1792 by Tipu Sultan, ruler of Mysore.
French Influence: Designed with the help of
French military architects, incorporating star-shaped fortifications
that were popular in Europe at the time. Strategic Importance:
Served as a defensive outpost, offering surveillance and
control over the surrounding area. Unique Design:
The star shape of the fort, specifically an eight-pointed star, is a notable
feature, allowing for全 coverage of approaches and minimizing blind spots for artillery.
Name Origin: Named Manjarabad after the Kannada word
“manju” (mist), likely due to its location often being shrouded in fog.
Historical Context: Constructed during a time of conflict between
Tipu Sultan and the British East India Company, as well as other regional powers like the Nizam
and Marathas who were allied with the British. Manjarabad Fort, Sakleshpura – Around
MangaloreManjarabad Fort, built by Tipu Sultan in 1792, served as a strategic military
outpost and is a unique example of French military architecture in India. Today, it is a popular
tourist attraction, offering historical insights and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Military Activities: Strategic Location:
The fort’s hilltop location provided a vantage point for monitoring enemy
movements, particularly those of the British. Defensive Design:
Its star-shaped design, incorporating features of French military
architecture, was designed to deflect cannon fire and provide overlapping fields of fire.
Storage and Defense: It served as a storage facility for ammunition
and other military supplies, and its design was intended to protect Tipu Sultan’s forces.
One-Level Structure: Unlike many forts with multiple levels,
Manjarabad Fort is a single-level structure, which is unusual for its time.
Present-Day State: Tourist Attraction: The fort is
now a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in its
history, architecture, and scenic views. Accessibility: Located on the Bangalore-Mangalore
highway, it is easily accessible to visitors. Preservation: The fort is well-maintained,
allowing visitors to explore its ramparts, passageways, and other structures.
No Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit the fort.
Opening Hours: It is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Misty Manjarabad Fort –
Manjarabad Fort, a star-shaped fort built by Tipu Sultan in 1792, is located in Sakleshpur,
Karnataka. While it is under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), there
have been concerns about its maintenance and upkeep. The fort is known for its unique design,
strategic location, and historical significance. Key Aspects of Manjarabad Fort:
Star-shaped Design: The fort’s eight-pointed star shape,
inspired by French military architect Vauban, was designed to deflect cannon fire and provide
a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Historical Significance:
Built by Tipu Sultan, the fort played a role in the military history of
the region and is a testament to his architectural and strategic vision.
Location: Situated at a height of 988 meters
(3,241 feet) above sea level, the fort offers stunning views of the
Western Ghats and the surrounding landscape. ASI’s Role:
The ASI is responsible for the fort’s maintenance and preservation, but there have been reports of
neglect, including overgrown vegetation, trash, and crumbling walls. Deccan Herald 2023 news.
Maintenance Issues: Despite being under ASI’s care, the fort has
reportedly faced challenges with regular upkeep, leading to concerns about
its long-term preservation. Tourist Attraction:
Manjarabad Fort is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka, attracting visitors interested
in history, architecture, and scenic views.
Manjarabad/Manjirabad Fort : The only one star shaped French style fort of India . In the western ghats UNESCO world heritage, India.
00:00 Thamarassery mountain pass ride to Kalpetta and Panamaram to Tholpetty the Kerala karnataka state border.
03:00 Kutta, Gonikopa, Thithimathi, Piriyapatna, Kushalnagar, Sanivarsanthi, Mallipatna, Kodalipet to reach Manjirabad Fort
03:14 The ruins of the Star Shaped French Tippu Sultan Fort.
16:03 Bykaravally, Kodalipet, Ramanathapuram, Kutta,Tholpetty, Kalpetta, Meppadi as the Thamarassery pass is closed of land slide, Nadugani, Nilambur to low lands covering Nagarhole and Tholpetty forests in monsoon rain on bike
20:52 Review of the bike trip through the Western ghats the UNESCO world heritage site.