The invasion began with a decisive imbalance in both numbers and readiness. Cochrane and Beckwith could bring nearly 7,000 troops against a French force of at most about 4,000. Most defenders were militia or men from the 66th Regiment rather than a healthy, concentrated field army. Disease, malnutrition, and very low morale further reduced their ability to hold fortified positions. This context explains why several defenses dissolved or were abandoned before the British columns reached Basse-Terre.
Notable Point · 10:24-11:01
Why Guadeloupe's defenders faced a hopeless balance
Nearly 7,000 British troops confronted at most 4,000 mostly militia defenders already weakened by disease, malnutrition, and collapsed morale.