introduction of Mysore, especially Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan & possible threats to British
The British viewed every Indian ruler as a potential enemy or ‘ally’ from whom they could usurp territory. Mysore state has grown powerful under the able leadership of Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan. These rulers were highly critical of the British East India company.
Threats Posed by Mysore to British
Commercial Loss of the British: The apprehension of the commercial loss in the spice trade of Malabar due to the control of Haidar Ali over Malabar and a possible threat to the control of Madras under the British.
Diplomatic and military skills of Haider: Haider Ali had great diplomatic skill to outmanoeuvre his opponents. Along with it his superior military skill, helped him to capture Dod Ballapur, Sera, Bednar, and Hoskote.
Alliance with France: Haider’s alliance with France and Haider’s ambition to drive the British away from the Carnatic and finally from India.
Modernising Army with French help: Haider took help from the French in meeting his army’s need for guns, saltpetre and lead and modern warfare techniques.
Impact of the American War of Independence: The American War of Independence eventually increased the closeness between Mysore and French in this part of the world, this was a cause of concern to the English.
The British thought to deal with this threat by waging a war against Mysore and eliminating it. It took four Anglo-Mysore wars to defeat the brave warriors of Mysore like Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan. This victory gradually strengthened the British and triggered off the possible threats that came in between their mastery over the subcontinent.