Explore the timelines and contributions of Portuguese administrators in India, including Vasco Da Gama, Francisco De Almeida, Alfonso de Albuquerque, and Nino da Cunha, and understand the decline of Portuguese power.
The Decline of Portuguese Colonial Power in India: Causes and Timeline
Major Causes Behind the Decline of Portuguese Power in India
By the 18th century, the Portuguese in India lost their commercial influence, though some continued trade and turned to piracy and robbery.
Hooghly was used by some Portuguese as a base for piracy in the Bay of Bengal.
Emergence of powerful dynasties in Egypt, Persia, and North India diminished Portuguese advantages.
The rise of the Marathas, who captured Salsette and Bassein in 1739, worsened their situation.
Portuguese religious policies, such as Jesuit activities and forced conversion to Christianity, led to widespread resentment.
Their dishonest trade practices, arrogance, and reputation as sea pirates created animosity among rulers.
The discovery of Brazil diverted Portugal’s focus westward.
The union of Spain and Portugal in 1580-81 involved Portugal in wars with England and Holland, weakening their presence in India.
Their monopoly on the sea route to India ended as the Dutch and English mastered ocean navigation.
The Dutch and English outcompeted the Portuguese due to superior resources and strategies.
Key Events in the Rise and Fall of Portuguese Power
1498: Vasco-da-Gama arrived at Calicut and was received by the Zamorin.
1503: Establishment of the first Portuguese fort at Cochin.
1510: Capture of Goa by Alfonso Albuquerque from Bijapur.
1596: Loss of South-east Asia to the Dutch.
1612: Loss of Surat to the English.
1663: Defeat by the Dutch along the Malabar coast.
1683: The Marathas invaded Goa, further reducing Portuguese power.
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