Introduction: Advent of the Europeans in India

Advent of the Europeans in India

1. What is it about?
• This section talks about how European countries (like the Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British) came to India and how it marked the beginning of modern Indian history.
2. Key Idea:
• History is continuous – it doesn’t have clear-cut divisions between ancient, medieval, and modern periods.
• But for convenience, we say modern Indian history began when Europeans arrived in India.
3. When Did Europeans Come?
• Europeans started coming to India in the 15th century (even before the Mughal Empire was fully established).
• The first to arrive were the Portuguese in 1498, led by Vasco da Gama.
4. Why is This Important?
• The arrival of Europeans changed India’s economy, politics, and culture.
• It eventually led to British rule in India, which shaped modern India.

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Key Points to Remember:

• Modern Indian history is often said to begin with the arrival of Europeans.
• Europeans started coming to India in the 15th century.
• The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive in 1498.
• Their arrival marked the start of big changes in India.