The Portuguese in West Africa: A Documentary History from 1415 to 1670

The history of the Portuguese in West Africa during the period from 1415 to 1670 is a fascinating tale of exploration, colonization, and cultural exchange. This documentary history provides an in-depth look at the encounters, accomplishments, and challenges faced by the Portuguese in their quest for dominance in this region of Africa.

During the 15th century, Portugal emerged as a formidable maritime power under the leadership of Prince Henry the Navigator. Inspired by a desire to find a sea route to Asia and driven by religious zeal to spread Christianity, the Portuguese embarked on ambitious voyages of discovery. Their expeditions primarily focused on exploring the west coast of Africa.

The Portuguese encounters with the West African kingdoms were marked by both cooperation and conflict. The Portuguese initially established friendly relations with local rulers, trading goods such as copper, cloth, coral, and European weapons in exchange for gold, ivory, and slaves. These trade relationships gave the Portuguese a significant economic advantage, shaping the course of their presence in West Africa for centuries to come.

The Portuguese in West Africa, 1415–1670: A Documentary History

by Erasmo Gamboa(Illustrated Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3491 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Print length	:	266 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

With time, however, tensions arose as the Portuguese began to encroach on the territories of African kingdoms and establish forts along the coast. This led to armed conflicts and a power struggle for control over the lucrative trade routes. The Portuguese aimed to dominate the trade of African goods, particularly gold, which was highly sought after in Europe.

One such conflict was the Battle of Mbwila in 1665, where the Portuguese faced a formidable alliance of African kingdoms. The battle was a turning point in Portuguese-African relations and significantly weakened the Portuguese hold over West Africa. This event marked the beginning of the decline of their dominance in the region.

Despite the conflict and eventual decline, the Portuguese left a lasting impact on West Africa. They introduced new cultural, religious, and technological influences to the region. The Portuguese presence also spurred the emergence of new social and political dynamics among the local populations.

This documentary history showcases various aspects of the Portuguese presence in West Africa, including firsthand accounts, maps, and illustrations. It provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the motivations, experiences, and consequences of the Portuguese exploration and colonization efforts during this period.

By examining primary sources, such as letters, diaries, and official reports, readers gain insight into the perceptions and perspectives of both the Portuguese and the African people they encountered. The voices of explorers, traders, missionaries, and local rulers come alive, offering a rich and nuanced narrative of the historical events.

Furthermore, the documentary highlights the interconnectedness of the Portuguese expansion in West Africa with broader historical developments. It explores the links between European colonialism, the African slave trade, and the emergence of global trade networks.

As we delve into this documentary history, we unravel a complex story of exploration, exploitation, and cultural exchange that shaped the course of West African history. The Portuguese legacy in this region is one of enduring significance and influence.

From the establishment of trading posts to the of new crops, religions, and languages, the Portuguese presence transformed West Africa in numerous ways. The echoes of their influence can still be felt in the cultural tapestry of present-day nations.

As we strive to understand the historical forces that have shaped our world, studying the Portuguese presence in West Africa from 1415 to 1670 is an essential endeavor. By examining this documentary history, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of historical events and the enduring legacies they leave behind.

So, embark on this journey through time with us as we explore the Portuguese in West Africa: A Documentary History from 1415 to 1670. Discover the untold stories, witness the pivotal moments, and unravel the past that continues to shape the present. Through this exploration, we gain a richer understanding of our shared human history.

The Portuguese in West Africa, 1415–1670: A Documentary History

by Erasmo Gamboa(Illustrated Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3491 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Print length	:	266 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Portuguese in West Africa, 1415–1670 brings together a collection of documents - all in new English translation - that illustrate aspects of the encounters between the Portuguese and the peoples of North and West Africa in the period from 1400 to 1650. This period witnessed the diaspora of the Sephardic Jews, the emigration of Portuguese to West Africa and the islands, and the beginnings of the black diaspora associated with the slave trade. The documents show how the Portuguese tried to understand the societies with which they came into contact and to reconcile their experience with the myths and legends inherited from classical and medieval learning. They also show how Africans reacted to the coming of Europeans, adapting Christian ideas to local beliefs and making use of exotic imports and European technologies. The documents also describe the evolution of the black Portuguese communities in Guinea and the islands, as well as the slave trade and the way that it was organized, understood, and justified.