The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive in India, with Vasco da Gama landing in Calicut on May 20, 1498. They ruled parts of India from 1505 until December 1961, establishing control through naval power, trade, and fortified settlements. Their influence marked the start of the European era in India.

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• Vasco da Gama reached Calicut in 1498 via Cape of Good Hope
• Portuguese rule in India began in 1505, lasted till 1961
• Goa captured in 1510 under Alfonso de Albuquerque
• Controlled coastal regions: Goa, Daman, Diu, Cochin, Calicut, Nagapattinam, Hooghly
• Superior naval strength, armed ships with cannons ensured dominance
• Administration led by Viceroy, supported by captains and revenue officers
• Contributions: military drills, shipbuilding, silver and goldsmithing, art, architecture
• Goa became hub for trade, filigree work, and Church-driven art
• Forced religious conversions and intolerance created resentment
• Decline due to corruption, weak trade, Dutch and English competition
• Lost most territories by 18th century, but held Goa, Daman, Diu till 1961