Portuguese missionaries convert indigenous Timorese to Christianity in historical context.
| Religion |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: | Updated:
3 min read
In 1690, Portuguese missionaries initiated efforts to spread Christianity among the indigenous Timorese in Timor-Leste. These missionaries aimed to convert the predominantly animist population to Catholicism, a movement that left a lasting impact on the cultural and religious landscape of the region.
Through the establishment of missions and the teaching of the Christian faith, the Portuguese missionaries successfully converted a significant number of indigenous Timorese. This conversion created a lasting legacy, as Christianity became deeply ingrained in the social fabric of Timor-Leste, influencing traditions, beliefs, and practices for generations to come.
The Portuguese missionary work and the subsequent conversion of the indigenous Timorese to Christianity marked a pivotal moment in the history of Timor-Leste, shaping its identity as a predominantly Catholic nation. This event not only altered the religious composition of the region but also paved the way for subsequent colonial influences and cultural exchanges.
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Primary Reference: A History of Christianity in Indonesia

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