|
Vasco Da Gama's expedition from Portugal was the beginning of the establishment of Portuguese rule over East Africa and Zanzibar. Lasting for 2 centuries, the Dominicans, Jesuits and Augustinians began building churches and mission outposts in an attempt to convert the entire population to Roman Catholicism. This attempt failed, as may be seen in the strong Muslim influence in Zanzibar today.
Thinking they were "invincible", the Portuguese omitted to send enough men to protect their territories. By the late 1800's they surrendered their last East African holding, Mombassa, which is on the coast of present day Kenya. There are few remnants of Portuguese rule over Zanzibar. Amongst these are bullfights which are held on Pemba island and a few Swahili words.
Next ..
|
|
