Overview
This lecture discusses India's 1961 invasion and annexation of Goa from Portuguese control, the international response, and why global powers did not intervene.
Post-World War II Attitudes Toward Territorial Conquest
- After WWII, global consensus viewed invading neighbors for land as unacceptable.
- European colonial powers still controlled some territories in India post-independence.
Background to the Goa Annexation
- India became independent in 1947; France ceded its territories in the 1950s, but Portugal refused to give up Goa.
- Portugal considered its overseas territories as integral parts of Portugal, not colonies.
- Diplomacy failed between India and Portugal, leading to deteriorating relations.
- India built up military presence near Goa and imposed sanctions on Portugal.
The 1961 Invasion of Goa
- In December 1961, India invaded Goa; the campaign lasted two days before Portuguese surrender.
- Portugal, unable to defend Goa, sought NATO support.
International Reactions and Aftermath
- The Soviet Union and most communist countries praised India's action; China was largely silent.
- NATO countries condemned the invasion and demanded Indian withdrawal, but took little concrete action.
- Britain blamed Portugal rather than India.
- Global powers did not escalate because most Goans supported joining India, and few wanted to support Portugal’s fading empire.
- Portugal did not formally recognize the loss of Goa until its 1970s regime change, after which relations normalized.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Annexation — The act of incorporating a territory into another country, often by force.
- Sanctions — Economic or political penalties imposed by one country on another.
- NATO — North Atlantic Treaty Organization, a military alliance between Europe and North America.
- Overseas Territory — Land governed by a country but located outside its mainland.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the events and outcomes of India's annexation of Goa for potential exam questions.
- Note the differing reactions of global powers and their significance for post-colonial international politics.