The French : Medieval Indian History

The French East India Company was a French trading company. The Company was formed in 1664 by Colbert, a Minister under Louis XIV.

The first French factory in India was established at Surat by Francis Caron. Later, Maracara set up a factory at Masulipaninam.

Francois Martin founded Pondicherry in 1d73. Other French factories in India were Chandranagore, Matte and Karaikal.

Francois Martin was the first governor of Pondicherry, the headquarters of the French possessions in India.