This article proposes a discussion of the factors that contributed to the settling within the Portuguese possessions along the shores of the Indian Ocean, namely the construction of fortresses along this coastline. These settlements represented an official strategy of establishment within the territory and of control of the commercial routes. Simultaneously, however, private individuals sought other forms of becoming wealthy which were very often contrary to the Portuguese crown's interests. The analysis of these two lines of action is based on the definition of strategies and tactics proposed by Michel de Certeau.
The State of Portuguese India; Portuguese fortresses; Strategies and tactics