The formation of the regiment was prompted by the expansion of the army as a result of the commencement of the Seven Years' War. On 25 August 1756 it was ordered that a number of existing regiments should raise a second battalion; among those chosen was the 19th Regiment of Foot.
The establishment of the regiment was prompted by the increase in military personnel resulting from the outbreak of the Seven Years' War. In August 1756, orders were given for certain regiments to form an additional battalion; the 19th Regiment of Foot was among those chosen.