Historical Events tagged with "portuguese"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Maratha Invasion of Portuguese Territory Begins

February 17th, 1739 286 years ago

The Maratha empire launched an invasion against Portuguese-occupied territories along the western coast of India. Led by the remarkable military strategist Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the forces aimed to expand Maratha influence in the region and challenge the remaining colonial powers. The strategic importance of Vasai, a Portuguese fort, made it a key objective as Marathas sought to establish dominance over the lucrative coastal trade routes.

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Military & Warfare

Guaraní Forces Defeat Bandeirantes at Mbororé

March 11th, 1641 384 years ago

In a decisive confrontation, Guaraní forces residing in Jesuit reductions successfully repelled the bandeirantes' advances. Led by local leaders, they faced off against Portuguese loyalists seeking to expand their territory in the region of present-day Panambí, Argentina. This battle illustrated the tensions existing between indigenous groups and colonial powers, showcasing the Guaraní's determination to protect their land and autonomy.

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Military & Warfare

Hendrick Lonck Captures Olinda for Dutch Brazil

February 16th, 1630 395 years ago

Dutch forces led by Hendrick Lonck successfully captured the city of Olinda, located in present-day Brazil, marking a significant point in the Dutch conquest of Brazilian territory. This military action was part of the broader conflict involving Dutch interests in South America as they sought to expand their influence away from their homeland, engaging in disputes with Portugal over lucrative sugar plantations.

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Exploration & Discovery

Belém Founded by Captain Francisco Caldeira

January 12th, 1616 409 years ago

Belém was established by Portuguese captain Francisco Caldeira Castelo Branco as a strategic point for trade and defense in the Amazon River delta region. Determined to secure Portuguese interests amidst competing colonial claims, Caldeira selected the site for its advantageous location and potential for growth. This new settlement aimed to control the Amazon River's trade routes and counteract Spanish influence in the region. Over time, Belém would grow into a significant urban center and play a critical role in the Portuguese colonial enterprise.

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Military & Warfare

Battle of Swally Loosens Portuguese Control

November 29th, 1612 412 years ago

In a significant naval conflict, the British East India Company faced the Portuguese forces at Swally, India, marking a pivotal moment in the struggle for dominance in the Indian Ocean. This battle was largely fought to assert English interests against the long-standing Portuguese Empire, which had established a strong presence in India. The outcome helped the British secure a foothold that would enable further expansion in the region, diminishing the Portuguese influence at a vital maritime crossroads.

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Military & Warfare

Pedro Lopes de Sousa's Failed Invasion of Kandy

July 5th, 1594 430 years ago

Portuguese forces, led by Pedro Lopes de Sousa, launched an invasion in 1594 against the Kingdom of Kandy in Sri Lanka as part of the Campaign of Danture. This military expedition aimed to expand Portuguese control over the island, which was characterized by its resistance against foreign powers. Despite the strategic planning, the incursion faced significant challenges and ultimately proved unsuccessful, highlighting the complexities of maritime imperial expansion in the region.

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Exploration & Discovery

Foundation of Luanda by Paulo Dias de Novais

January 25th, 1575 450 years ago

Luanda was founded by the Portuguese navigator Paulo Dias de Novais as a fortified settlement. This strategic move aimed to solidify Portuguese presence in Angola. The settlement was established on the Atlantic coast, making it a critical site for trade and military defense. Today, Luanda stands as Angola's capital and a major African city.

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Military & Warfare

Portuguese Forces Oust French from Rio de Janeiro

January 20th, 1567 458 years ago

Portuguese forces, led by Estácio de Sá, launched a decisive campaign to expel the French from Rio de Janeiro. The French, who had established a foothold in Brazil and were competing for territory with the Portuguese, found themselves in a critical battle where their defenses were systematically breached. The victory solidified Portuguese control over the area and marked a pivotal moment in the European struggle for dominance in Brazil.

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Military & Warfare

Matsura Clan's Naval Battle in Fukuda Bay

October 18th, 1565 459 years ago

A naval confrontation took place between the Matsura clan's ships and a Portuguese carrack, marking the first recorded naval battle between Japan and Western powers. The encounter in Fukuda Bay aimed to assert control over maritime trade routes, as the Matsura sought to challenge the influence of European traders. Despite their efforts, the Matsura clan was ultimately unable to capture the Portuguese vessel.

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