The plunder of Nancowry' (Danish: Plyndringen af Nancovryhavn) or the Battle of Nancowry (Danish: Slaget ved Nancovryhavn) was the British capture of the Danish colony at Nancowry Island (Ny Sjælland) in 1805.
Background
In 1756, the Danish flag was hoisted at the island of Great Nicobar (Ny Sjælland),[1] and the colonial attempt also spread to Nancowry Island, however, these attempts already failed the next year.[2] For the rest of the 18th century, Denmark would try to establish a colonial presence on the Nicobar Islands.[2]
Initially, the Danish Nicobar Islands (Frederiksnagore) were left out of the British occupation, and in 1802 a ship arrived with more supplies and men.[3] However, in 1805, on the basis of the war between Denmark and Great Britain, a British captain named Blom would arrive at the habour of Nancowry.[3][4] Together with his vessel, HMS Amboyna, Blom would dislodge the Danish forces there and looted the godowns and residences, before leaving the harbour again.[5]
Aftermath
In the following year, the Danes would revisit the island, and the Danish command would be re-established.[4] In 1807, the islands would be left to themselves again because of the Gunboat War, and two years later, in 1809, the British would come to the island and transport the leftover garrison to Tranquebar.[3]
