Eastern West Indies (1756–1767 CE): War, Colonial Transitions, and Natural Disasters

Seven Years' War in the Caribbean

Between 1756 and 1767, the global Seven Years' War heavily impacted the Eastern West Indies, as European powers vied fiercely for dominance. British forces captured Grenada on March 4, 1762, under Commodore Swanton without resistance. Grenada was formally ceded to Britain by the Treaty of Paris (1763). A significant earthquake struck Grenada in 1766, followed by a suppressed rebellion among the enslaved population the following year.

Throughout the war, Britain secured control over several islands, notably St. Vincent, Grenada, and Tobago, reflecting significant territorial gains in the region.

British Victories and Strategic Shifts

The year 1759, often called Britain's Annus Mirabilis (year of wonders), saw sweeping British successes across global theaters. These included repelling French forces in India, decisive victories at the Battle of Minden in Europe, naval triumphs at the Battles of Lagos and Quiberon Bay, and significant North American conquests including Quebec City and Guadeloupe. British politician Horace Walpole famously remarked, "Our bells are worn threadbare with ringing for victories." British dominance established this year would notably elevate Britain’s global position at the expense of France.

Under the strategic direction of Secretary of State William Pitt the Elder, British forces carried out major offensives in the West Indies. In January 1759, British troops landed at Martinique but soon shifted focus to Guadeloupe due to stiff resistance. After intense fighting, disease, and leadership setbacks—including the death of commander Peregrine Hopson—Colonel John Barrington led British forces to victory, compelling the French governor Nadau du Treil to surrender on May 1, 1759. The costly victory, however, saw heavy casualties due to the tropical climate.

Following the war, Britain debated retaining either Canada or Guadeloupe. Britain ultimately prioritized Canada's strategic value, returning Guadeloupe to France under the Treaty of Paris (1763).

Jesuit Expulsion and Financial Crisis

In the French colony of Martinique, economic turmoil followed the bankruptcy of Jesuit missions. Father Antoine La Vallette, who borrowed heavily to expand plantation operations, faced ruin when ships laden with goods worth millions were captured during war. His creditors' legal action in 1760 led to a severe financial crisis, significantly contributing to the suppression of the Jesuit order across French territories.

Founding of Mayagüez

On September 18, 1760, settlers led by Faustino and Lorenzo Martínez de Matos, Juan de Silva, and Juan de Aponte established the town of Mayagüez near the Yagüez River on the island of Puerto Rico. Named Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de Mayagüez, reflecting the Canarian heritage of its settlers, the town received rights of self-government in 1763.

Colonial Unrest and the Stamp Act

Political opposition to Britain's Stamp Act (1765) erupted notably in the Caribbean, especially in St. Kitts and Nevis, where violent riots targeted stamp distributors. Rioting successfully prevented stamp use in these islands. Although vocal political resistance appeared in other colonies, including Montserrat and Antigua, enforcement differed, with Barbados notably complying despite local opposition.

Port-au-Prince and Earthquakes

The city of Port-au-Prince, originally named L'Hôpital by the French in 1749, endured significant earthquakes in 1751 and again in 1770, the latter marking its establishment as the new capital of Saint-Domingue (modern Haiti).

Conclusion

The era 1756–1767 in the Eastern West Indies was characterized by intense warfare, natural disasters, and significant territorial and administrative shifts. The aftermath reshaped colonial dynamics, illustrating both the opportunities and challenges faced by European powers and local populations in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.