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1517
Portugal Contacts China
In a race for world dominance, a head start goes a long way. In 1517 Portugal made contact with China to begin its attempts to own world trade. -
Founding of the East India Company
The first "factory" for the East India Company is opened. Despite it's name, the East India Company's first factory was in Indonesia -
Rio De Janeiro is Founded
In 1602, Portuguese sailors land and establish Rio De Janeiro. In this same year, they begin the exportation of Brazilwood to Europe. -
East India Company Gains Royal Recognition
The King and Queen of England officially recognize the East India Company. At this point they are able to create a military to enforce their business throughout the world with the royal blessing. -
The Black Hole of Calcutta
In 1756, Indian rebels attacked Fort William. For one night they trapped British soldiers in a small room. The overcrowding of this room led to suffocation and death for many of the captives. -
The Peninsular War
In 1807, Napoleon's Peninsular War with Spain and Portugal forced the Portuguese Royal family to flee to Brazil. This showed the Portuguese reliance on Brazil rather than the opposite. -
The European in India
In 1813, The European in India was published. This book painted a portrait of India as an exotic and strange land, reinforcing the cultural divide. -
Freedom: Brazilian Independence
In 1824, after Portuguese dominance had faded, Brazil declared its independence. This was the end of Portuguese control in the region. -
Sepoy Mutiny
The Sepoy soldiers in the British East India company's army grew tired of failed promises and rebelled. This was the first of many such events in Indian-British relations going forward -
Brazilian Empire
By 1864, the Brazilians had come as far as establishing their own empire. In 1864 they were engaging in war to conquer Uruguay. -
Indian Independence Act
In 1947, after nearly a century of sustained discord, Britain finally relinquished control of India. This led to the creation of India as well as Pakistan -
Portugal Just Won't Give Up
Despite England having granted India independence, Portugal insisted on maintaining control over their Indian territory. It was not until 1954 that they finally relented.
