Portuguese Entry and Establishment in India: From Trade to Domination
Arrival of Vasco da Gama (1498): Establishing a Sea Route to India
Vasco da Gama, with ships led by Gujarati pilot Abdul Majid, arrived at Calicut in May 1498.
The Zamorin of Calicut initially welcomed Gama due to the trading opportunities.
Arab traders were wary of Portuguese presence, fearing competition in the lucrative spice trade.
Gama's return to Portugal with spices marked the beginning of direct European trade with India.
Early Conflicts and Establishments: Securing a Foothold in India
Pedro Alvarez Cabral's arrival at Calicut in 1500 led to conflicts with locals and Arabs.
Portuguese retaliated against the attack on their factory, seizing Arab ships and goods.
Cabral established advantageous treaties with Cochin and Cannanore, expanding Portuguese influence.
By 1501, Vasco da Gama's return further strained relations with the Zamorin, leading to Portuguese dominance at Cannanore.
Governorship of Francisco De Almeida (1505-1509): Implementing the Blue Water Policy
Almeida appointed as governor aimed to consolidate Portuguese presence in India.
He fortified key centers like Anjadiva, Cochin, and Cannanore to protect Portuguese interests.
Almeida's "Blue Water Policy" aimed at naval dominance, challenged by Mameluke Sultan's opposition and defeat at Diu in 1509.
His tenure marked initial efforts to control Indian Ocean trade routes and establish Portuguese superiority.
Alfonso de Albuquerque’s Expansion (1510-1515): Establishing Portuguese Hegemony
Albuquerque succeeded Almeida, securing Goa from the Sultan of Bijapur in 1510.
He established Portuguese strongholds across the Indian Ocean, including Malacca and East African ports.
Albuquerque's permit system regulated trade and fortified Portuguese control over maritime trade routes.
His policies aimed at economic and political dominance, integrating Portuguese settlers into local communities.
Later Developments and Consolidation: Expanding Portuguese Influence
Nino da Cunha's tenure further solidified Portuguese control, shifting headquarters to Goa in 1530.
Portuguese influence expanded to Bengal and Diu through strategic alliances and military interventions.
Albuquerque's policies aimed to secure Goa's importance as a commercial and military hub.
Portuguese settlers contributed to local economies and culture, establishing Goa as a prominent Portuguese stronghold.
Impact on Trade and Politics: Reshaping the Indian Ocean World
Portuguese actions disrupted existing trade networks, aiming to monopolize spice and luxury trade.
They implemented a permit system and fortified ports to control Indian Ocean trade routes.
Portuguese technological superiority, including naval tactics and shipbuilding, enhanced their military control.
Their dominance reshaped Indian Ocean commerce and political dynamics, impacting local kingdoms and Arab traders.
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