Battles & Campaigns · 1759
Invasion of Guadeloupe
Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe (France)
What happened
British ships fired on the town of Basse-Terre in January 1759, and soldiers landed and pushed inland through difficult country. Disease spread through the British force, and Hopson died. Barrington took over and sent troops around the island, and the French surrendered in early May.
Why it matters
It was part of Britain's 'year of victories' in 1759. William Pitt wanted to stretch France by attacking it wherever he could.
What came next
Britain held Guadeloupe until 1763, when the Treaty of Paris gave it back to France in exchange for France's Canadian colonies.
Did you know?
Disease, not fighting, cost the British garrison most: nearly 800 officers and men died on the island by the end of 1759.
Timeline
- 22 Jan 1759British ships bombard Basse-Terre.
- 27 Feb 1759Hopson dies; Barrington takes command.
- 1 May 1759The French on Guadeloupe surrender.
- 10 Feb 1763British occupation ends.