The Portuguese were the first Europeans to reach India by sea in 1498. Their arrival marked the beginning of European colonial influence, naval dominance, and overseas trade control in the Indian subcontinent.

BulletsIn

•  Vasco da Gama reached Calicut on May 20, 1498 via Cape of Good Hope
• Portuguese India, called Estado da Índia, lasted from 1505 to 1961
• Goa captured in 1510 under Viceroy Afonso de Albuquerque
•  Control built through naval power, forts, and coastal dominance
•  Major centres included Goa, Daman, Diu, Cochin, and Calicut
•  Trade focused on spices, textiles, pearls, silk, and porcelain
•  Administration led by a Viceroy with revenue and naval officials
•  Armed ships and cannon-based warfare ensured trade monopoly
•  Introduced new military methods and maritime technology
•  Decline began with Dutch, British competition and weak governance