We, the Merchants: The Portuguese in the Indian Ocean, 1500-1750

A sweeping history of the Portuguese empire in the Indian Ocean, told through the lives of its merchants

In We, the Merchants, Fernanda Trindade Fonseca offers a groundbreaking account of the Portuguese empire in the Indian Ocean, told through the lives of its merchants. Drawing on a wealth of archival sources, Fonseca reveals the central role that merchants played in shaping the empire's expansion, its interactions with other cultures, and its eventual decline.

The Portuguese Empire in the Indian Ocean

The Portuguese empire in the Indian Ocean was one of the most extensive and powerful empires in history. At its peak, it stretched from the coast of Africa to the shores of China, and its ships sailed the waters of the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, and the Persian Gulf. The Portuguese empire was built on trade, and its merchants were the driving force behind its expansion.

The Merchants

The Portuguese merchants who ventured into the Indian Ocean were a diverse group. They came from all walks of life, from wealthy nobles to humble sailors. They were all, however, united by their desire for adventure and their thirst for wealth. The Portuguese merchants were also highly skilled navigators and商人. They were able to sail the treacherous waters of the Indian Ocean and trade with a variety of cultures.

The Portuguese Empire and the Indian Ocean World

The Portuguese empire had a profound impact on the Indian Ocean world. It introduced new technologies, such as the compass and the astrolabe, which revolutionized navigation. It also introduced new crops, such as maize and potatoes, which became staples in the diets of people throughout the region. The Portuguese empire also facilitated cultural exchange between different parts of the Indian Ocean world.

The Decline of the Portuguese Empire

The Portuguese empire in the Indian Ocean began to decline in the 17th century. This was due to a number of factors, including the rise of the Dutch and English empires, the decline of the Portuguese economy, and the increasing resistance of local rulers to Portuguese rule. By the end of the 18th century, the Portuguese empire in the Indian Ocean had all but disappeared.

We, the Merchants: A New History of the Portuguese Empire

We, the Merchants is a major new history of the Portuguese empire in the Indian Ocean. It is a sweeping narrative that tells the story of the empire through the lives of its merchants. Fonseca's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Portuguese empire, the Indian Ocean world, or the global economy.

Why You Should Read We, the Merchants

We, the Merchants is a fascinating and informative book that offers a new perspective on the Portuguese empire in the Indian Ocean. Fonseca's writing is clear and engaging, and she brings the world of the Portuguese merchants to life. We, the Merchants is a must-read for anyone interested in history, adventure, or the global economy.

Order Your Copy Today!

We, the Merchants is available now from your favorite bookseller. Order your copy today and start your journey into the world of the Portuguese merchants!