Who among the following was the first to arrive in Africa as traders t

Who among the following was the first to arrive in Africa as traders that eventually led to European colonization of Africa?

French
Spanish
Portuguese
Dutch
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-1 – 2020
The Portuguese were the pioneers of European maritime exploration along the African coast starting in the 15th century. They established trading posts (factories) along the coasts, initially for gold, ivory, and slaves, laying the groundwork for later European involvement and eventual colonization.
Prince Henry the Navigator sponsored voyages down the West African coast, leading to the establishment of trading relationships and posts. By the late 15th century, Vasco da Gama had rounded the Cape of Good Hope, opening up the sea route to India and further expanding Portuguese influence and trade along the East African coast.
While other European powers like the Spanish, Dutch, and French later became significant players in African trade and colonization, the Portuguese were the first to arrive and establish a presence based on maritime trade.
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