The Battle of St. Thome was a significant battle fought in India during the colonial period. It took place on November 19, 1746, near the town of St. Thome (present-day San Thome) in the Madras Presidency. The battle was fought between the Nawab of Carnatic and the French.

The Nawab of Carnatic
The Nawab of Carnatic was a title given to the ruler of the Carnatic region, which encompassed parts of present-day Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. During this time, the Carnatic region was a vassal state of the Mughal Empire. The Nawab of Carnatic held significant power and influence in the region.

The French
The French, represented by their East India Company known as the French East India Company, had established trading posts and acquired territories in India. They sought to expand their influence and control over Indian territories, particularly in the Carnatic region.

The Background
Prior to the Battle of St. Thome, the French had formed an alliance with the Nawab of Carnatic against the British East India Company. The French had successfully captured Madras (present-day Chennai) from the British in 1746 and established their control over the region.

The Battle
However, the alliance between the French and the Nawab of Carnatic was short-lived. The Nawab grew disillusioned with the French and their attempts to assert control over the Carnatic region. As a result, the Nawab switched sides and formed an alliance with the British.

The Battle of St. Thome was the culmination of this shifting alliance. The British, with the support of the newly aligned Nawab, launched an attack on the French forces at St. Thome. The battle was fierce and resulted in heavy casualties on both sides.

The Outcome
Ultimately, the British and the Nawab emerged victorious in the Battle of St. Thome. The French forces were defeated and forced to retreat from the Carnatic region. This victory marked a significant turning point in the struggle for control over the Carnatic region between the European powers.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Battle of St. Thome was fought between the Nawab of Carnatic and the French. The battle was a result of shifting alliances and power struggles between the European powers in India during the colonial period. The British, with the support of the Nawab, emerged victorious in the battle and gained control over the Carnatic region.