Confused European Sailor Describes The Great Christian Kingdom of India (1499) // Vasco Da Gama

Summary

This video recounts a maritime journey to Calcutta, where a Portuguese ambassador seeks to establish friendly relations with the local king. After enduring storms at sea, the crew finally reaches land, only to be met with skepticism regarding their offerings. The ambassador shares the wealth of Portugal and learns about local customs, including the presentation of gifts. Despite the initial challenges in securing a connection, the narrative unfolds with rich descriptions of the culture and environment, ultimately highlighting the importance of discovery and diplomacy in fostering new relationships.

Takeaways

• 🌍 After 23 days at sea, the explorers sighted land near Calcutta amidst heavy rain and thunderstorms.
• 🚢 The pilot initially struggled to identify the location due to weather conditions.
• 👥 Upon arrival, local boats approached the explorers, asking about their nationality and intentions.
• 🗣️ The explorers were surprised to hear their own language spoken by the locals.
• 🏙️ Calcutta is described as a city inhabited by Christians with distinct cultural practices, including specific clothing and jewelry.
• 🎉 The captain was welcomed by local authorities and informed the king of Portugal's ambassador's arrival.
• 👑 The king received the captain and provided him with hospitality, including traditional foods and a lavish setting.
• 🎁 The captain brought gifts for the king but faced criticism for their perceived lack of value compared to local expectations.
• 🪙 The king questioned the captain about the riches of Portugal, expressing disappointment in the gifts offered.
• ⛴️ Ultimately, the expedition decided to return to Portugal after determining that establishing relations with the locals was challenging.

Q & A

What significant event occurred on May 18?

On May 18, after 23 days at sea, the explorers sighted lofty mountains near Calcutta, although heavy rain and thunderstorms made navigation difficult.

How did the local inhabitants react to the arrival of the explorers?

The local inhabitants were surprised to hear Portuguese spoken and inquired about the explorers' nationality, expressing curiosity about their presence.

What was the appearance and attire of the inhabitants of Calcutta described in the transcript?

The inhabitants were described as having a tawny complexion, with some having long beards and hair while others clipped their hair short. They wore minimal clothing, with the most respectable covering their lower extremities with fine cotton fabrics.

What was the initial response of the locals when a message was sent to the king?

The king's messengers received the captain with fine cloth and expressed a welcome, indicating that the king was on his way to meet them.

Describe the reception the captain received upon meeting the king.

The captain was received by a friendly group armed with swords. A palanquin was provided for him, indicating respect and distinction during his approach.

What gifts did the captain plan to send to the king, and how were they received?

The captain planned to send gifts including lambs, scarlet hoods, hats, coral strings, and basins. However, local factors criticized these gifts as inadequate for a king, suggesting that he should offer gold instead.

What was the primary objective of the captain's voyage?

The primary objective of the captain's voyage was to discover new lands and establish relationships with Christian kings, rather than to seek riches.

How did the king respond to the captain's explanation of his mission?

The king expressed surprise that the captain brought nothing of value to offer, questioning the captain’s purpose in bringing only samples of merchandise.

What was the state of trade and interactions upon the explorers' arrival in Calcutta?

The explorers faced difficulties in establishing trade relations, with local merchants offering low prices for their goods, which diminished the expected value of their merchandise.

What decision did the captain and his crew make on August 29?

On August 29, the captain and other leaders decided to leave Calcutta after determining that establishing cordial relations with the locals was impossible, despite their discoveries.