Atlantic Trade Networks in Colonial Era
Words: 700 Pages: 2 4918The early interactions between Portuguese sailors and the African coast set the stage for an era marked by exploration and exploitation. Due to their geographical proximity to the Northwest coast of Africa, Portuguese sailors were among the first Europeans to engage in large-scale exploitation of the West African coast. This initial engagement led to the establishment of fortified trading posts along the coast, facilitating trade with Muslim traders who supplied European markets with African gold, spices, ivory, and slaves (Francis). […]
