The First Anglo-Maratha War, also known as the First Maratha War, took place from 1775 to 1782 between the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company. It was a significant conflict that resulted in the establishment of a formal treaty between the two powers and marked the beginning of a series of wars between the Marathas and the British.

Background: By the mid-18th century, the Maratha Empire had emerged as a dominant power in India, controlling a vast territory and exerting influence over several princely states. The British East India Company, on the other hand, was steadily expanding its control over various regions in India and seeking to establish dominance in trade and territorial control.

Causes of the War: The primary cause of the First Anglo-Maratha War was the conflicting territorial ambitions and political aspirations of the Marathas and the British. The British aimed to expand their control over regions held by the Marathas, while the Marathas sought to maintain their authority and protect their interests.

A course of the War:

1. Battle of Wadgaon (1779): The war began in 1775 with initial skirmishes and clashes between the Marathas and the British. The Battle of Wadgaon, fought in January 1779, was a significant turning point. The Marathas, under the leadership of Mahadji Shinde and Tukojirao Holkar, inflicted a decisive defeat on the British forces led by Colonel Charles Egerton.
2. Treaty of Salbai (1782): The British, facing military setbacks and mounting financial costs, sought a peaceful resolution. The Treaty of Salbai, signed in May 1782, ended the war. The treaty recognized the status quo ante bellum, meaning that both sides agreed to restore the territories they held before the war. The Marathas were able to retain their control over much of their territory.

Impact and Consequences: The First Anglo-Maratha War had significant consequences for both the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company:

1. Maratha Consolidation: The war highlighted the military strength and resilience of the Marathas. Despite facing initial setbacks, they were able to repel British advances and maintain their dominance over a significant portion of India. It also solidified the position of Mahadji Shinde and Tukojirao Holkar as prominent Maratha leaders.
2. Recognition of British Influence: The war demonstrated the formidable military capabilities of the British East India Company. The Treaty of Salbai recognized British territorial gains and established the company as a significant player in Indian politics.
3. Increased British Interest in India: The war convinced the British of the need to establish stronger control and influence over Indian territories. It laid the groundwork for future British expansion and paved the way for subsequent Anglo-Maratha conflicts.
4. Territorial Realignment: The war resulted in a realignment of territories. While the Marathas retained much of their dominions, the British secured their hold over key strategic areas and established a foothold for further expansion.
5. Precedent for Future Conflicts: The First Anglo-Maratha War set the stage for future conflicts between the Marathas and the British. It marked the beginning of a series of wars and engagements that would shape the balance of power in India.

Overall, the First Anglo-Maratha War was a significant chapter in the history of both the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company. It established the Marathas as a formidable force and demonstrated the military capabilities of the British, setting the stage for further conflicts in the years to come.