The correct answer is: A) Dutch
The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive in Kerala, in 1498, but they did not establish a permanent settlement. The Dutch were the first to establish a permanent European settlement in Kerala, in 1604. They built a fort at Cochin, which they called Fort Cochin. The Dutch ruled Kerala for over 150 years, until they were defeated by the British in 1795.
The British were the next European power to establish a presence in Kerala. They took control of the Dutch settlements in Kerala in 1795, and ruled the region until India gained independence in 1947.
The French were the last European power to establish a presence in Kerala. They arrived in Kerala in the 17th century, and built a fort at Mahe. However, they were never able to establish a significant presence in the region, and they were eventually forced to leave in 1793.
The Portuguese, Dutch, British, and French all had a significant impact on the history and culture of Kerala. The Portuguese introduced Christianity to Kerala, and the Dutch and British introduced Western education and technology. The French were not as successful in their efforts to influence Kerala, but they did leave a legacy of architecture and cuisine.