Question

Answer the following question with the help of the given points:

Explain the expansion of Portuguese empire in India -

1. Establishment of colonies
2. Administration
3. Policies of Religious Intolerance

Answer 1

1. Establishment of Colonies:
   • The Portuguese first arrived in India in 1498 with Vasco da Gama’s voyage to Calicut.
   • They gradually established trading posts and colonies along the western coast, including Goa, Daman, Diu, and Vasai.
   • These colonies served as centres of trade, military control, and administration, allowing them to dominate key sea routes in the Indian Ocean.
2. Administration:
   • The Portuguese established a centralized administration in their colonies.
   • The governor of Goa had absolute authority over civil, military, and judicial matters.
   • They built forts, ports, and military establishments to protect their colonies and trade routes.
   • The administration focused mainly on controlling trade, collecting taxes, and maintaining law and order.
3. Policies of Religious Intolerance:
   • The Portuguese actively promoted Christianity, often by force.
   • They established churches, missionary schools, and conversion programs to spread their religion.
   • Hindu temples were sometimes destroyed or restricted, and local customs were suppressed.
   • The policy created resentment among local populations and resistance movements against Portuguese rule.