Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu and South India under French Rule: From Francois Martin to Dupleix 1674-1754

This book explores the colonization of Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, and South India by the French in the eighteenth century, and their interactions with the Indian rulers and populations in the political, economic, social, and religious spheres. The French never acquired any territory for France through outright conquest, but they relied on collaboration with Indian dubashes, merchants, and military men to survive. The relationship was characterized by a cultural clash between the Europeans and Indians, with the Europeans having the upper hand. There was no partnership or "master-bania relationship" between the French and the Indians, and the element of force, aggression, and violence was omnipresent in European presence and expansion in India.

Format: Hardback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive study delves into the intricate details of the French colonization of Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, and South India during the eighteenth century. It explores the complex interactions between the French colonizers and the Indian rulers and populations in various spheres, including politics, economics, society, and religion.

It is important to note that the French Governors based in Pondicherry, such as François Martin and Dupleix, never sought to establish a French empire in India through outright conquest. Instead, they employed a strategic approach that involved collaboration with local Indian rulers and populations. This collaboration was not always equal, as the Europeans held a superior position due to their technological advancements and military strength.

The study highlights the significant role played by Indian dubashes, merchants, and certain Indian rulers in facilitating the French colonization effort. These individuals were often motivated by self-interest and sought to benefit from the economic opportunities that came with French presence. However, they were always subordinate and submissive to the Europeans, as the latter had the power and control.

One notable example is Ananda Ranga Poullé, who was a famous Indian dubash and a loyal servant of the French. Despite his loyalty, Poullé had to resort to flattery and other tactics to maintain his position in the eyes of his European masters. This highlights the unequal power dynamics that existed between the French and the Indians.

The arrival of the Europeans in India marked the beginning of a cultural clash between the two groups. The Europeans, with their superior technology and Western values, often viewed the Indians as inferior and sought to dominate them. This led to the use of force, aggression, and violence by the Europeans in their expansion efforts.

The political, economic, and religious fields were all affected by the European presence and expansion in India. The Europeans imposed their own laws, customs, and religious beliefs on the Indian populations, often at the expense of local traditions and customs. This caused resentment and resistance among the Indians, who saw their cultural identity and autonomy being eroded.

In conclusion, this study provides a detailed account of the French colonization of Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, and South India during the eighteenth century. It highlights the complex interactions between the French colonizers and the Indian rulers and populations in various spheres. It demonstrates that the French colonization effort was not driven by a grand plan to establish a French empire in India but rather by a combination of strategic collaboration, self-interest, and cultural clashes. The study also sheds light on the unequal power dynamics that existed between the Europeans and the Indians, and the impact of European presence and expansion on the political, economic, and religious fields of India.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 145 x 222 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367640798