Notes on Vasco da Gama: Round Africa to India (1497-1498 CE)

Background

• Vasco da Gama: Born c. 1460 in Sines, Portugal.
• Supported by Prince John and Prince Manuel as part of the effort to find a sea route to India.
• Da Gama was given command of four specially built vessels in 1497.

Voyage Details

Departure and Journey

• Set Sail: July 8, 1497.
• Cape of Good Hope: Rounded in November 1497.
• Calicut Arrival: May 20, 1498.

First Encounter at Bay of St. Helena

• Found a broad bay with clean anchorage, named it Santa Helena (Nov 7-8).
• Encountered indigenous people, noted their lifestyle and trade items.
• November 10-12: Exchanged goods with natives; perceived high value for copper items.

Rounding the Cape of Good Hope

• Due to a miscalculation, initially unsure of proximity to the Cape.
• Successfully rounded Cape on November 22, 1497.

Arrival in India

Calicut

• Mistakenly anchored near Capna, later correctly identified Calicut.
• Initial communications with local Moors and Hindus.
• Cultural Observations:
  • Hindus mistaken for Christians due to superficial similarities.
  • Descriptions of local customs, attire, and social structures.

Interaction with Local Authority

• King of Calicut: Engaged with da Gama through intermediaries.
• Da Gama presented as an ambassador from the King of Portugal.
• Misunderstandings and cultural exchanges took place.

Diplomatic Challenges

• Gifts: Da Gama's gifts were ridiculed by local merchants.
• Negotiations: Attempts to establish trade and diplomacy faced resistance.
• Hostage Situation: Da Gama and his men temporarily detained.

Return Journey

• Merchandise Debate: Under local customs, crews and merchandise required to stay until all goods were sold.
• Resolution: Da Gama managed to return to his ship after tense negotiations and some of his men stayed back with landed goods.

Impact and Legacy

• Da Gama's voyage opened up Indian Ocean to European exploration and trade.
• Shifted European commerce focus from Mediterranean to Atlantic and beyond.
• Set the stage for further expeditions and colonial endeavors by European powers.