Question

State your opinion:

In the 17th century, it was difficult for the Indians to face the Portuguese.

Answer 1

1. In the earlier half of the 17th century five ships used to arrive every year in the Indian ports.
2. These ships were equipped with canons.
3. The Portuguese had ship building facilities at Goa, Diu and Daman.
4. Durable teakwood of best quality, essential for building ships was available in these regions.
5. The Portuguese used to deploy seamen from Portugal to India.
6. In those times, Indian rulers did not maintain a naval force, therefore, Indian rulers found it difficult to fight the strong naval forces of the Portuguese.
7. Only one exception was that of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who had built his own navy.
8. So, In the 17th century, it was difficult for the Indians to face the Portuguese.