Siege of Delhi (1804) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Siege of Delhi |
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| Part of the Second Anglo-Maratha War | |||||||
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| Belligerents | |||||||
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 East India Company |
 Maratha Confederacy |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
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David Ochterlony Gerard Lake |
 Yashwantrao Holkar |
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| Strength | |||||||
| 200 regulars 150 irregulars |
60,000 cavalry 15,000 infantry |
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The Siege of Delhi was an important event that happened from October 8 to October 19, 1804. It was part of a bigger conflict called the Second Anglo-Maratha War. During this siege, a powerful Maratha leader named Yashwantrao Holkar tried to take control of the city of Delhi.
At that time, Delhi was being defended by forces from the British East India Company and the Mughal Empire. The British were helping the Mughals protect the city.
Contents
What Was the Goal?
Yashwantrao Holkar had a big goal. He wanted to bring the Mughal Emperor, Shah Alam II, under his own control. This would give Holkar more power and influence in India.
Holkar's Army
To achieve his goal, Holkar brought a very large army to Delhi. He had about 60,000 cavalry (soldiers on horseback) and 15,000 infantry (soldiers on foot). This was a huge force!
Delhi's Defenders
Inside Delhi, the British commanders were Lieutenant Colonels David Ochterlony and William Burn. They had a much smaller force, but they were determined to defend the city. They had about 200 regular soldiers and 150 irregular soldiers.
Fierce Fighting at the Gates
The fighting was very tough, especially at the main gates of Delhi. These included the Ajmeri Gate, Kashmiri Gate, and Lahori Gate. The defenders fought bravely against Holkar's large army.
The End of the Siege
The siege lasted for several days. However, on October 18, 1804, important help arrived for the defenders. General Gerard Lake came with more British troops. When Holkar saw these reinforcements, he realized he could not win. He decided to give up the siege and left Delhi.
Who Won?
The British East India Company and the Mughal Empire won the Siege of Delhi. They successfully kept control of the city and protected the Mughal Emperor.
