An Account of the Campaign in the West Indies, in the Year 1794 Trivia Quiz Questions and Answers

What island, considered the most important French possession in the Caribbean, was captured by British forces under the leadership of Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis in 1794?

Guadeloupe
Martinique
St. Lucia
Dominica

Correct Answer: Martinique

Correct Answer Explanation: Martinique, with its formidable fortress, Fort Bourbon, was a strategic target for the British. Its capture was a pivotal victory in the campaign.

Which island, initially captured by the British, ultimately fell back into French hands due to the devastating impact of yellow fever and a French counteroffensive?

Martinique
St. Lucia
Guadeloupe
Dominica

Correct Answer: Guadeloupe

Correct Answer Explanation: Guadeloupe, despite initial success, became a major casualty of the Yellow Fever epidemic and subsequent French counterattack, showcasing the unpredictable nature of warfare.

Which island was strategically significant due to its ability to block access to Fort Royal Bay, a key defense point for the French?

Martinique
Pigeon Island
St. Lucia
Dominica

Correct Answer: Pigeon Island

Correct Answer Explanation: Pigeon Island, also known as Islet aux Ramieres, served as a vital defensive point for the French, allowing them to control access to Fort Royal Bay. However, its capture by the British enabled the British fleet to enter the bay and provide support to their troops.

Which fort, considered a key fortification in Martinique, was captured by a combined sea and land attack under the leadership of Captain Faulknor?

Fort Bourbon
Fort Fleur d’Epée
Fort Matilda
Fort Louis

Correct Answer: Fort Louis

Correct Answer Explanation: The capture of Fort Louis involved a daring maneuver by Captain Faulknor in the Zebra sloop, followed by a storming of the fort by British troops and sailors, illustrating the collaborative efforts of the navy and army.

Which British general, renowned for his skillful maneuvers, led the capture of St. Pierre, the capital of Martinique?

Sir John Jervis
Sir Charles Grey
General Dundas
General Prescott

Correct Answer: General Dundas

Correct Answer Explanation: General Dundas demonstrated his military expertise by skillfully maneuvering his troops and outsmarting the French, ultimately forcing their surrender and capturing St. Pierre, the capital of Martinique.

What strategic maneuver enabled the British fleet to access Fort Royal Bay and provide logistical support to their troops?

The capture of Pigeon Island
The capture of Fort Louis
The capture of St. Pierre
The capture of Fort Bourbon

Correct Answer: The capture of Pigeon Island

Correct Answer Explanation: The capture of Pigeon Island, also known as Islet aux Ramieres, was a strategic victory for the British as it opened access to Fort Royal Bay, enabling them to resupply their forces and launch attacks.

What was the primary factor that contributed to the British loss of Guadaloupe?

The Yellow Fever epidemic
The French counteroffensive
Lack of reinforcements
The death of General Dundas

Correct Answer: The Yellow Fever epidemic

Correct Answer Explanation: The Yellow Fever epidemic played a devastating role in the British withdrawal from Guadaloupe. The disease weakened their defenses and resulted in heavy casualties, making them vulnerable to the French counterattack.

What type of cannon, often mounted on light carriages, was utilized during the campaign?

Amuzette
Langrege
Howitzer
Mortar

Correct Answer: Amuzette

Correct Answer Explanation: The Amuzette, a small cannon, was commonly used in the campaign, offering flexibility and mobility for smaller engagements and fortifications.

What was the term used for a ship stripped of its armament and used for transporting troops or supplies?

En flute
Amuzette
Langrege
Fascine

Correct Answer: En flute

Correct Answer Explanation: The term “en flute” described ships that were stripped of their weapons and converted for transport purposes, playing a crucial role in moving troops and supplies during the campaign.

What was a common practice used by the British to compensate for their losses and expenses during the campaign?

Levying contributions on conquered territories
Negotiating treaties with local leaders
Seeking financial aid from the British government
Imposing a tax on the island’s trade

Correct Answer: Levying contributions on conquered territories

Correct Answer Explanation: The practice of levying contributions, which essentially involved imposing payments on the conquered territories, was a common tactic used by victorious powers during wartime to compensate for their expenses and losses.

What was the primary motivation for French royalists who had fled to the West Indies during the French Revolution to participate in the British forces?

To gain wealth and power
To restore the monarchy
To fight for the ideals of liberty
To protect their families and property

Correct Answer: To restore the monarchy

Correct Answer Explanation: French royalists, who had fled to the islands during the revolution, saw an opportunity to join the British forces and contribute to the restoration of the monarchy and the regaining of their lost possessions.

What happened to the British forces at Camp Berville after a fierce battle against a combined force of French regulars, mulattoes, and negroes?

They retreated to Fort Matilda
They were forced to surrender
They received reinforcements
They were evacuated to Martinique

Correct Answer: They were forced to surrender

Correct Answer Explanation: The British forces at Camp Berville were overwhelmed by the French counterattack, resulting in their surrender and a major setback for the British campaign.

What happened to the British garrison at Fort Matilda, the last British stronghold in Guadeloupe, after an eight-week siege?

They successfully repelled the French attack
They were forced to surrender
They received reinforcements and escaped
They were evacuated by the British navy

Correct Answer: They were forced to surrender

Correct Answer Explanation: The British garrison at Fort Matilda, weakened by disease, constant bombardment, and lack of reinforcements, eventually succumbed to the French siege and surrendered, marking the end of British control over Guadaloupe.

What was the name of the French commissioner who effectively mobilized the black population and led a successful counterattack against the British in Guadaloupe?

Victor Hughes
Pierre Victor Malouin
Jean-Baptiste de Latouche Tréville
Charles Henri d’Estaing

Correct Answer: Victor Hughes

Correct Answer Explanation: Victor Hughes, a French commissioner, played a significant role in the French counteroffensive. He successfully mobilized the black population of Guadeloupe and led a determined attack that ultimately drove the British out of the island.

What happened to Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis, the Commanders-in-Chief of the British forces, after the loss of Guadaloupe and the deteriorating situation in the West Indies?

They were court-martialed for their failures
They were promoted to higher ranks
They resigned their command and returned to Europe
They remained in the West Indies to rebuild their forces

Correct Answer: They resigned their command and returned to Europe

Correct Answer Explanation: Facing a difficult situation with dwindling resources and the loss of key territories, Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis resigned their command and returned to Europe, ending their involvement in the campaign.

What significant event occurred in the Battle of June 1, 1794, as reported by Sir Charles Grey?

The British captured Martinique
The French lost seven ships of the line
The Yellow Fever epidemic reached its peak
The death of General Dundas

Correct Answer: The French lost seven ships of the line

Correct Answer Explanation: The Battle of June 1, 1794, witnessed a significant victory for the British navy, resulting in the loss of seven French ships of the line.

What was the primary cause of the heavy casualties among British troops in Guadeloupe?

The French counteroffensive
The Yellow Fever epidemic
The harsh terrain
The lack of supplies

Correct Answer: The Yellow Fever epidemic

Correct Answer Explanation: The Yellow Fever epidemic, which swept through Guadaloupe, proved to be the most significant cause of casualties for the British forces. The tropical climate and the harsh conditions of the campaign weakened their immune systems, making them vulnerable to the disease.

What was the approximate number of men capable of bearing arms in Guadeloupe at the time of its capture by the British?

1,000
3,000
5,000
7,000

Correct Answer: 5,877

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the account, there were approximately 5,877 men in Guadeloupe capable of bearing arms at the time of its capture, highlighting the potential resistance the British faced in maintaining control.

What was the name of the British naval officer who led the daring attack on La Pique frigate?

Captain Faulknor
Captain Shank
General Dundas
General Prescott

Correct Answer: Captain Faulknor

Correct Answer Explanation: Captain Faulknor, renowned for his bravery and skill, led a daring attack on the La Pique frigate, capturing it and demonstrating the prowess of the British navy.

What was the name of the British fort that was under siege for eight weeks before surrendering to the French?

Fort Bourbon
Fort Fleur d’Epée
Fort Matilda
Fort Louis

Correct Answer: Fort Matilda

Correct Answer Explanation: Fort Matilda, the last British stronghold in Guadaloupe, endured an eight-week siege by the French before it was forced to surrender, marking the end of British control over the island.

What was the primary reason for the resignation of Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis from their command in the West Indies?

The loss of Guadaloupe
The Yellow Fever epidemic
The lack of reinforcements
The death of General Dundas

Correct Answer: The lack of reinforcements

Correct Answer Explanation: The loss of Guadaloupe and the deteriorating situation in the West Indies, coupled with the lack of reinforcements, ultimately led to the resignation of Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis. The challenges they faced, combined with the dwindling resources, made it difficult to continue their campaign.

Which of the following was NOT a key factor in the loss of Guadaloupe to the French?

The Yellow Fever epidemic
The French counteroffensive
The capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée
The lack of reinforcements

Correct Answer: The capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée

Correct Answer Explanation: The capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée was an initial success for the British, but it was ultimately the Yellow Fever epidemic, the French counteroffensive, and the lack of reinforcements that led to their withdrawal from Guadeloupe.

What was the approximate number of men lost by the British in the capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée?

Correct Answer: 54

Correct Answer Explanation: The British suffered 54 casualties, both killed and wounded, in the capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée, highlighting the fierce fighting involved in the operation.

Which of the following terms refers to a defensive obstacle made from felled trees?

Amuzette
Langrege
Abbatis
Fascine

Correct Answer: Abbatis

Correct Answer Explanation: Abbatis, a defensive obstacle constructed from felled trees, was used during the campaign to create fortifications and hinder enemy advances.

What was the approximate number of men lost by the French in the attack on Camp Berville?

Correct Answer: 700

Correct Answer Explanation: The French forces, despite successfully capturing Camp Berville, suffered heavy losses, with an estimated 700 casualties in the attack, illustrating the intense fighting and the determination of the British troops.

What was the approximate number of French ships that arrived in Guadeloupe to launch their counteroffensive?

Correct Answer: 5

Correct Answer Explanation: The French squadron that arrived in Guadeloupe to launch their counteroffensive consisted of five ships, including two frigates, one corvette, and two ships armed en flute, demonstrating their commitment to regaining control of the island.

What was the primary reason for the British forces’ heavy casualties in the failed attack on Point à Pitre?

The French counteroffensive
The Yellow Fever epidemic
The lack of supplies
The death of General Dundas

Correct Answer: The French counteroffensive

Correct Answer Explanation: The failed attack on Point à Pitre resulted in heavy casualties for the British forces due to the fierce resistance they encountered from the French counteroffensive.

What was the approximate number of men lost by the British in the defense of Camp Berville?

Correct Answer: 20

Correct Answer Explanation: The British forces in Camp Berville, despite being outnumbered and outgunned, fiercely defended their position, suffering approximately 20 casualties during the battle.

Which of the following was NOT a key factor in the success of the British campaign in the West Indies?

The unified cooperation between the army and navy
The strategic planning and execution of the campaign
The capture of key islands like Martinique and St. Lucia
The effective use of contributions levied on conquered territories

Correct Answer: The effective use of contributions levied on conquered territories

Correct Answer Explanation: While levying contributions was a common practice during wartime, it did not play a significant role in the initial successes of the British campaign. The unified cooperation between the army and navy, the strategic planning, and the capture of important islands were the key factors in their early victories.

What was the approximate number of men who died on the Broderic transport due to the Yellow Fever epidemic?

10
50
100
All but one crew member

Correct Answer: All but one crew member

Correct Answer Explanation: The Broderic transport, tragically, lost all but one crew member to the Yellow Fever epidemic, highlighting the devastating impact of the disease on the British forces.

Which of the following was NOT a common tactic used by the British forces during the campaign?

Employing amuzette cannons
Using fascine bundles for fortifications
Launching sorties against the enemy
Using langrege artillery shots

Correct Answer: Using langrege artillery shots

Correct Answer Explanation: While amuzette cannons, fascine bundles, and sorties were common tactics employed by the British forces during the campaign, langrege artillery shots, a type of artillery shot filled with iron scraps or other heavy materials, were not mentioned as being used in the account.

What was the name of the key British general who died during the campaign, leaving the British forces in Guadeloupe without a strong leader?

General Dundas
General Prescott
Sir Charles Grey
Sir John Jervis

Correct Answer: General Dundas

Correct Answer Explanation: The death of General Dundas, a significant figure in the campaign, occurred at a critical juncture when the French were mounting a major counteroffensive, leaving the British forces without a strong leader and contributing to their eventual withdrawal from Guadaloupe.

What was the name of the small flat-bottomed boat used for ferrying passengers or goods across rivers or waterways?

Amuzette
Gabarre
Fascine
Abbatis

Correct Answer: Gabarre

Correct Answer Explanation: The Gabarre, a small flat-bottomed boat, was commonly used during the campaign for ferrying passengers and goods across rivers and waterways, providing a crucial means of transportation.

Which of the following events best illustrates the strategic importance of Pigeon Island?

The capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée
The death of General Dundas
The surrender of Fort Matilda
The opening of Fort Royal Bay to the British fleet

Correct Answer: The opening of Fort Royal Bay to the British fleet

Correct Answer Explanation: The capture of Pigeon Island proved to be a strategic victory for the British as it opened access to Fort Royal Bay, enabling them to resupply their forces and launch attacks, highlighting the island’s importance in the campaign.

Which of the following best describes the impact of the Yellow Fever epidemic on the British forces?

It led to their victory in Guadaloupe
It caused a significant decline in their morale
It forced them to abandon their campaign altogether
It resulted in heavy casualties and weakened their defenses

Correct Answer: It resulted in heavy casualties and weakened their defenses

Correct Answer Explanation: The Yellow Fever epidemic had a devastating impact on the British forces, resulting in heavy casualties, weakening their defenses, and ultimately contributing to their loss of Guadaloupe.

What was the approximate number of men lost by the British in the attack on Point à Pitre?

Correct Answer: 611

Correct Answer Explanation: The British suffered heavy casualties in the failed attack on Point à Pitre, losing a significant number of troops, with 611 privates among those killed or wounded, highlighting the fierce fighting and the challenges they faced.

What was the primary source of information for the author, Rev. Cooper Willyams, regarding the campaign in the West Indies?

Official military records
Interviews with soldiers and officers
His own observations as chaplain on the Boyne
Letters and dispatches from the Commanders-in-Chief

Correct Answer: His own observations as chaplain on the Boyne

Correct Answer Explanation: Rev. Cooper Willyams, as chaplain on the Boyne, provided a firsthand account of the campaign, drawing on his own observations and experiences to present a detailed narrative of the events.

What was the primary motivation for the British to capture the French West Indies islands?

To gain control of valuable trade routes
To prevent the spread of the French Revolution
To establish a naval base in the Caribbean
To weaken the French economy

Correct Answer: To gain control of valuable trade routes

Correct Answer Explanation: The French West Indies islands were strategically important to both Britain and France due to their valuable trade routes, and the British sought to control these islands to secure their economic interests and strengthen their position in the region.

Which of the following best describes the relationship between the British army and navy during the campaign?

They operated independently, with little coordination
They were in constant conflict, vying for resources
They worked together in a unified and coordinated effort
They were initially allies but eventually turned against each other

Correct Answer: They worked together in a unified and coordinated effort

Correct Answer Explanation: The campaign was marked by the strong cooperation between the British army and navy. Their combined efforts and shared vision were crucial to their initial successes in capturing Martinique and St. Lucia.

Which of the following best describes the British government’s response to the loss of Guadaloupe?

They immediately launched a new campaign to retake the island
They condemned the Commanders-in-Chief for their failures
They expressed disappointment but recognized the complexities of the situation
They disbanded the army and navy and abandoned their colonial ambitions

Correct Answer: They expressed disappointment but recognized the complexities of the situation

Correct Answer Explanation: While the loss of Guadaloupe was a significant setback, the British government expressed disappointment but acknowledged the complexities of the situation, recognizing the unforeseen challenges that arose during the campaign, particularly the devastating impact of the Yellow Fever epidemic.

Which of the following was NOT a major challenge faced by the British during the campaign?

The Yellow Fever epidemic
The French counteroffensive
The lack of supplies
The resistance of the indigenous population

Correct Answer: The resistance of the indigenous population

Correct Answer Explanation: The account does not highlight significant resistance from the indigenous population. The main challenges faced by the British were the Yellow Fever epidemic, the French counteroffensive, and the lack of supplies.

Which of the following best describes the author’s perspective on the accusations of greed and tyranny levied against the Commanders-in-Chief?

He supports these accusations and believes they were justified
He refutes these accusations and defends the Commanders’ actions
He remains neutral and avoids taking sides on this issue
He believes these accusations were exaggerated and politically motivated

Correct Answer: He refutes these accusations and defends the Commanders’ actions

Correct Answer Explanation: Rev. Cooper Willyams, as an observer and participant in the events, refutes the accusations of greed and tyranny levied against the Commanders-in-Chief. He emphasizes their noble intentions, their efforts to maintain order and fairness in the conquered territories, and the complexities of wartime operations.

Which of the following best describes the ultimate outcome of the British campaign in the West Indies?

It secured British dominance in the region
It resulted in a decisive victory for the British
It ended in a stalemate with no clear winner
It ended in a British defeat with the loss of several key islands

Correct Answer: It ended in a British defeat with the loss of several key islands

Correct Answer Explanation: While the British achieved initial successes in capturing several islands, the campaign ultimately ended in a British defeat with the loss of key territories like Guadeloupe. The Yellow Fever epidemic, the French counteroffensive, and the challenges of maintaining control over conquered territories contributed to their setbacks.

What was the approximate number of men lost by the French in the battle for Fort Fleur d’Epée?

Correct Answer: 250

Correct Answer Explanation: The French forces suffered a significant loss in the battle for Fort Fleur d’Epée, with an estimated 250 casualties, highlighting the intense fighting and the determination of the British forces.

What was the name of the British naval officer who died in the battle with the La Pique frigate?

Captain Faulknor
Captain Shank
General Dundas
General Prescott

Correct Answer: Captain Faulknor

Correct Answer Explanation: Captain Faulknor, renowned for his bravery and skill, was tragically killed during the battle with the La Pique frigate, highlighting the risks and sacrifices made by the British navy during the campaign.

Which of the following was NOT a key factor in the success of the French counteroffensive?

The arrival of a French squadron
The mobilization of the black population
The leadership of Victor Hughes
The capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée

Correct Answer: The capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée

Correct Answer Explanation: The capture of Fort Fleur d’Epée was an initial victory for the British, but it was ultimately the arrival of a French squadron, the mobilization of the black population, and the leadership of Victor Hughes that contributed to the success of the French counteroffensive and their eventual victory in Guadaloupe.

What was the approximate number of men left behind in Barbados by the British forces at the start of the campaign?

100
500
977
1,500

Correct Answer: 977

Correct Answer Explanation: The British forces, embarking on the campaign, left behind 977 men in Barbados, highlighting the size and complexity of the operation and the need to maintain a logistical presence in the region.

Which of the following best describes the historical context of the campaign in the West Indies?

It took place during a period of peace and stability
It was part of a larger global conflict between Britain and France
It was a direct result of the American Revolution
It was a struggle for control of the slave trade

Correct Answer: It was part of a larger global conflict between Britain and France

Correct Answer Explanation: The campaign in the West Indies took place during the French Revolution and the subsequent wars between Britain and France. It was part of a larger global conflict, as both nations sought to establish dominance in the region and secure control over valuable trade routes.

What was the approximate number of men lost by the British in the siege of Fort Matilda?

Correct Answer: 17

Correct Answer Explanation: The British garrison at Fort Matilda, during the eight-week siege, suffered 17 men killed and 79 wounded, highlighting the toll of the constant bombardment and the difficult conditions they faced.

What was the approximate number of firearms delivered out to troops in Guadaloupe after its capture?

1,000
2,000
4,044
5,877

Correct Answer: 4,044

Correct Answer Explanation: The British forces, after capturing Guadaloupe, delivered out 4,044 firearms to troops, reflecting their efforts to maintain control over the island and suppress potential resistance.

Which of the following best describes the author’s overall message about the campaign in the West Indies?

It was a clear victory for the British, proving their military superiority
It was a costly and ultimately unsuccessful endeavor, with significant setbacks
It was a heroic struggle against overwhelming odds, showcasing British courage
It was a complex and unpredictable conflict with both successes and defeats

Correct Answer: It was a complex and unpredictable conflict with both successes and defeats

Correct Answer Explanation: Rev. Cooper Willyams, through his detailed account, presents a nuanced perspective on the campaign, highlighting both the successes and setbacks experienced by the British forces. He emphasizes the complexities of warfare, the unpredictable nature of events, and the heavy cost of victory.

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