Capture of Saint Lucia
Resumption of the Anglo-French War · Saint Lucia, West Indies
Summary
After the breakdown of the Peace of Amiens, the British retook Saint Lucia in 1803; the island, restored to France in 1802, passed definitively under British rule until independence in 1979.
Historical context
The resumption of hostilities between France and the United Kingdom led to naval and land operations for control of West Indian colonies, with Saint Lucia a key point for domination of the Caribbean.
Tactics
The British relied on naval superiority and coordinated landings; a blockade and landing attempt in November 1803 partly failed but consolidated British control of the island.
Consequences
The loss of Saint Lucia durably weakened the French presence in the Antilles; cession was confirmed in 1814 by the Treaty of Paris, after British occupation begun in 1803.