Francisco de Almeida
First viceroy of Portuguese India, victor at Diu.
Dom Francisco de Almeida (c.
- field
- Exploration, military command, colonial administration
- nationality
- Portuguese
Lore & Background
Almeida was born at Lisbon and joined the military early. His mission was to control the spice trade, build forts, and establish trading posts. In India, he built forts at Anjediva Island, Cannanore, Cochin, and Quilon.
Reader's Guide
That battle broke the combined naval power of the Mamluk Egyptians, Ottomans, and local Indian rulers, forcing the Ottomans and Egyptians to leave the Indian Ocean. Almeida also established key forts along the East African and Indian coasts, laying the foundation for the Portuguese Estado da Índia.
More in Colonial And Post-Colonial Leaders 1-21
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