The arrival of European powers introduced new trade routes and expanded existing ones. This led to the diversification of trade routes in the Indian Ocean, with Portuguese and Dutch ships bypassing the Red Sea and establishing direct connections between Europe and Asia, particularly India and Southeast Asia.
Increased Competition and Conflict:
The presence of European powers brought intense competition and conflict over control of trade routes and access to valuable goods and resources. The Portuguese, Dutch, English, and French merchant companies competed fiercely with Arab and Indian traders, leading to naval battles and struggles for dominance. This period is often referred to as "The European Century."
Commercialization and Globalization:
The Age of Exploration accelerated the commercialization and globalization of the Indian Ocean trade network. European powers introduced a new emphasis on maximizing profits and the accumulation of wealth, intensifying the quest for spices, textiles, and other luxury goods. This globalization process further interconnected different regions and cultures, shaping global economic and cultural exchanges.
Rise of New Trading Ports:
Portuguese, Dutch, and English merchants established new trading ports and hubs along the Indian Ocean coastlines, including Goa, Madras, and Bombay (Mumbai), challenging the earlier dominance of established ports such as Hormuz and Calicut.
Shift in Power Dynamics:
The arrival of European powers shifted power dynamics in the Indian Ocean region. The dominance of Muslim merchants and the influence of Islamic civilization declined as European nations asserted their military, political, and economic might.
Overall, the Age of Exploration had a transformative impact on Indian Ocean trade. It introduced new actors, technologies, and motivations, reshaping trading patterns, power dynamics, and the global economy.