Who was the Portuguse Governor in India to conclude a friendship treat...
In 1500, a new Portuguese company, Estado Da India was found by few merchants to trade iin India and other Asian countries. This was a private company.
They had set up the trading stations in India for carrying on business. A governor was appointed in the various stations.
Albuquerque (1509-1515) conquered Goa from Bijapur and in 1511 he concluded a friendly treaty with Krishnadeva Raya.
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Who was the Portuguse Governor in India to conclude a friendship treat...
Albuquerque was the Portuguese governor in India who concluded a friendship treaty with Krishnadeva Raya around 1511 A.D.
Background:
During the early 16th century, the Portuguese established their presence in the Indian subcontinent with the aim of monopolizing the lucrative spice trade. They set up trading posts along the western coast of India and Goa became their main base. However, their expansionist policies and aggressive tactics often led to conflicts with local rulers.
Arrival of Albuquerque:
Afonso de Albuquerque, a Portuguese nobleman and military strategist, arrived in India in 1503 as the captain of a fleet. He was appointed as the governor of Portuguese India in 1509. Albuquerque had a clear vision of establishing Portuguese hegemony in the region, both economically and politically.
Relations with Krishnadeva Raya:
Krishnadeva Raya was the ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the most powerful kingdoms in South India during that time. He had a reputation as a skilled administrator and military strategist. Recognizing the growing influence of the Portuguese, Krishnadeva Raya sought to establish friendly relations with them.
The Friendship Treaty:
In 1511, Albuquerque and Krishnadeva Raya met and negotiated a friendship treaty. The details of the treaty are not known, but it is believed that it included provisions for mutual cooperation, trade, and military assistance.
Benefits for the Portuguese:
The friendship treaty with Krishnadeva Raya was advantageous for the Portuguese in several ways:
1. Trade: It allowed the Portuguese to expand their trade networks and access the rich resources of the Vijayanagara Empire.
2. Military Support: The treaty provided the Portuguese with a powerful ally in South India, which helped to protect their interests and deter rival European powers.
3. Diplomatic Recognition: The treaty conferred legitimacy to the Portuguese presence in India and established them as an important player in regional politics.
Legacy:
The friendship treaty between Albuquerque and Krishnadeva Raya marked a significant milestone in Portuguese-Indian relations. It laid the foundation for future interactions and collaboration between the two powers. However, conflicts and tensions would arise in the subsequent years as the Portuguese continued to pursue their expansionist agenda.
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