Portuguese ships mark the Gulf's early history with their arrival.

In 1485, Portuguese sailors under the command of explorer Vasco da Gama entered the Gulf waters near Bahrain, marking the first European presence in the region. This event was part of the larger Age of Exploration, during which European powers sought new trade routes and territories. The arrival of Portuguese ships in the Gulf had a significant impact on the region's trade and politics. It introduced Europe to the lucrative spice trade of the East, leading to increased competition and eventually domination by European powers. The Portuguese presence also disrupted existing trade dynamics and alliances in the Gulf, reshaping the geopolitical landscape. This event laid the foundation for centuries of European influence in the Gulf region, as well as the broader Middle East. It marked the beginning of a new era of interconnectedness between Europe and the Gulf, with lasting implications for trade, culture, and politics. #PortugueseExploration #GulfTrade #EuropeanInfluence #BahrainHistory