Capture of Cannanore facts for kids

The Capture of Cannanore was an important battle during the Third Anglo-Mysore War. It happened on December 17, 1790. This battle took place in Cannanore, a city now known as Kannur in India.

In this fight, soldiers from the British East India Company attacked Cannanore. They were led by General Robert Abercromby. The city was defended by troops from the Kingdom of Mysore and the local Arakkal Kingdom of Cannanore.

What Happened at Cannanore?

The British forces started to surround Cannanore on December 14, 1790. Their goal was to take control of the city's main fort.

Taking the High Ground

The British army worked to capture the higher areas around the fort. Gaining control of this high ground was very important. It allowed them to look down on the fort and attack it more easily.

Once the British had control of these important high places, the defenders of Cannanore realized they could not win. They decided to give up and surrendered to the British.

Why This Battle Mattered

The British victory at Cannanore was a big deal. Just a few days before, another British force had captured Calicut. These two victories helped the British gain full control over the Malabar Coast. This area was very important for trade and military power.

Who Fought in the Battle?

Many different groups of soldiers took part in the Capture of Cannanore.

British and Allies

The British forces included over 3,000 soldiers from the HM 77th Regiment. They also had soldiers from the 1st Bombay Native Infantry. About 2,000 local Nair fighters also joined the British side.

Mysore and Allies

On the other side, there were over 5,000 soldiers from the Kingdom of Mysore. They were fighting alongside local Mappila fighters and troops from the Arakkal Kingdom of Cannanore. The Arakkal Kingdom was led by Ali Raja Beevi Junumabe Sultana II.

See also

• Mysore invasion of Kerala