Although Goa is prevailing as a legacy of the Portuguese colonial era, in fact,
its history dates back to as early as in the antiquity during which facts were
mingled with mythology. However, the evident history of Goa is that it was part
of the Mauryan Empire (the 3rd century B.C.)
For the next 700 years, Goa was ruled by the succession of Hindu dynasties
such as the Shillaharas, the Kadambas, and the Chalukyans. Until 1312, Goa was
controlled by the Muslims, and it began to rise as an important landing place
for ships carrying horses to Hampi.
By the late 15th century, upon the discovery of a new route to India by the
band of Portuguese adventurers, including Vasco de Gama, Goa became the ideal
base for the seafaring Portuguese who determined to overcome the manipulation of
the spice route from the East. In the meantime, the Portuguese also took the
occasion to spread Christianity. Accordingly, there happened the expansion, and
consolidation of Portuguese cultures, languages and other legacies of values of
the Christian world into Goa. Owing to the wealth gained from the spice trade
during the Portuguese domination, Goa came into its golden age. It became the
largest city in the East, boasting of no less than 300 churches within town, and
having a population of over 40,000 people. It was also the vice imperial seat of
the Portuguese Empire of the East. Despite its decayed power due to the
competition of the British, French, and Dutch as well as its inadequate ability
to control all over its far-flung territory, the Portuguese continue to dominate
Goa until the 20th century.
There were a series of efforts from the Indian Government to discuss with the
Portuguese on the withdrawal from Goa, but the issue seemed to be intractable
due to the Portuguese's ignorance. On December 17, 1961, India Prime Minister
Jawaharlal Nehru then decided to order the military invasion and liberation of
Goa. The operation ended with the surrender of the Portuguese Governor General
Vassalo da Silva.
Today, the Goan people still retain a distinctive Southern European flavor,
yet, combine their own native culture, making Goa one of the multi-cultural
showcases in India.
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Goa, India