English Attack on Portuguese Carrack Cinco Chagas
The Portuguese carrack Cinco Chagas was attacked by English ships while transporting slaves and treasures from Africa to Europe. This conflict took place near the Azores, leading to significant loss of life. Of the over 700 individuals aboard the ship, only 13 survived the assault, marking a devastating event for those involved.
The Cinco Chagas was a Portuguese treasure ship.
Only 13 of 700 passengers survived the attack.
The incident showcases late 16th-century naval warfare.
It occurred near the Azores in the Atlantic Ocean.
What Happened?
The action involving the carrack Cinco Chagas occurred in June 1594 when this Portuguese ship, laden with slaves and treasure, was intercepted by English naval forces in the waters near the Azores. The Cinco Chagas, a large and valuable ship, was en route from the African coast to Portugal, carrying not only human cargo but also precious commodities. The English, keen to disrupt Portuguese trade and expand their influence, targeted the ship in a calculated move during a time of rising tensions between the two maritime powers. The assault by English ships was swift and brutal, leading to the sinking of the Cinco Chagas and a catastrophic loss of life. With over 700 people on board, only 13 managed to survive the attack, highlighting the ferocity of naval confrontations in the late 16th century. This incident underscores the dangerous nature of transatlantic voyages during this era, fraught with both peril from natural elements and hostile engagements.
Why Does it Matter?
The sinking of the Cinco Chagas had significant implications for both Portuguese and English maritime activities. It exemplified the increasing competition for dominance over ocean trade routes, particularly involving the lucrative slave trade. The event contributed to the ongoing conflict between England and Spain, influencing naval tactics and policies in subsequent years, and illustrated the broader geopolitical struggles of the time.