Adolf Lüderitz's Purchase of Angra Pequena

Adolf Lüderitz, a German trader, acquired Angra Pequena from the Nama chief Josef Frederiks II for 10,000 marks and 260 guns. This transaction marked a pivotal moment in the establishment of German interests in the region. Following the purchase, Lüderitz renamed the area Lüderitz, reflecting his personal stake in the territory. His actions were driven by the belief that Britain would soon declare the entire area a protectorate, which prompted Lüderitz to secure his claim. This acquisition laid the groundwork for future German colonial expansion in what would become German South West Africa, significantly impacting the geopolitical landscape of the region. The purchase not only facilitated the establishment of a German presence but also initiated a series of events that would lead to increased European interest and eventual colonization of southern Africa. The economic implications of this acquisition were profound, as it opened up opportunities for trade and resource exploitation in the area, which was rich in minerals and other natural resources.