The Pre-Freedom Fight Era: The Arrival of Europeans and the Start of Colonization
The colonization of India begins with the arrival of Europeans, starting with the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reaching Calicut on May 20, 1498. This momentous event marked the opening of a new era that would lead to centuries of European dominance and the eventual struggle for India's independence. From the early 15th century, Portuguese expeditions, organized by Prince Henry the Navigator, had been reaching down the African coastline, primarily in search of West African riches. These expeditions extended Portuguese maritime knowledge but yielded little profit. However, with the ascension of John II to the Portuguese throne in 1481, the focus shifted towards establishing a direct sea route to Asia. This route was critical for breaking into the lucrative spice trade, which was then monopolized by the Republic of Venice through overland routes. Vasco da Gama, leading a fleet of four ships and 170 men, set sail from Lisbon on July 8, 1497, on a mission to reach the rich spice ma...