São Tomé first phase of colonization

The colonial history of São Tomé and Príncipe is characterized by profound economic transformations, shaped not only by internal dynamics but also by interactions with other colonial territories, especially Brazil. The early colonial history of São Tomé and Príncipe illuminates the interactions between different cultures and societal groups. It demonstrates how geographical and historical influences led to Creolization, which continues to shape the identity of the archipelago to this day.

The Foundations and Challenges of the First Colonization of São Tomé and Príncipe

Discovered by Portuguese sailors around the year 1471, the archipelago in the Gulf of Guinea gained geostrategic importance after the construction of the São Jorge da Mina fortress in 1482 and the arrival of the Portuguese in the Congo the following year. The colonization of the uninhabited islands aimed at establishing a European settler colony, engaging in sugar production, creating a hub for maritime navigation to Asia, and spreading Christianity in the region.

The Birth of a Colonial Society

The first settlement of São Tomé failed in 1486 due to the inhospitable climate and food shortages; it was not until 1493 that successful colonization took place under Álvaro de Caminha. .The archipelago's early years saw the establishment of important religious institutions, such as the founding of dioceses, shaping the ecclesiastical landscape and extending Portugal's influence. As the first diocese in Africa, it marked a commitment to the spread of Christianity and the governance of Portuguese overseas interests from São Tomé.

Slavery and Social Dynamics in the Early Years

The deportation of convicts to São Tomé became a common practice, as few settlers voluntarily wanted to endure the harsh climate. Nonetheless, these individuals could take part in economic activities, and some even held prominent public offices. Slaves were brought from neighboring African kingdoms, initially working in households and later on plantations.

Economic Aspects of the First Colonial Era

Settlers were granted land, which became their property after five years of cultivation. The introduction of food plants, domestic animals, and African slaves kickstarted agricultural development.  Sugar cultivation was labor-intensive and depended on a large enslaved population, boosting São Tomé's role in the transatlantic slave trade. It became the world's leading sugar producer and reflected the broader colonial emphasis on monoculture and exportation.

The Slave Market and Its Evolution

São Tomé increasingly played an important role in the regional slave trade and the transatlantic slave trade from around 1530. However, over time its importance waned in comparison to Luanda, while the slave trading zones were restricted to Gabon and Calabar.

Resistance and Rebellion Against Slavery

Resistance to slavery presented ongoing challenges. Escaped slaves established maroon communities, which persistently fought for autonomy and sometimes assaulted plantations. Rebellious actions culminated in significant uprisings, notably led by figures like Amador in 1595, which devastated sugar infrastructure and marked a turning point in the colony's history.

The Emergence of Creole Societies

As the second territory after Cape Verde, São Tomé experienced a permanent coexistence of Europeans and Africans. Despite promoted connections between settlers and African slaves, the 16th century saw the phenomenon of biological, linguistic, and cultural creolization. Thus, complex societal structures and creole languages emerged.

The Legacy of the Early Colonial Phase in Linguistic and Cultural Areas

The creolization process led to the development of unique languages on the islands, with Portuguese providing the lexical basis. The process of mutual acculturation, despite the power dominance of Europeans, allowed Africans to preserve certain aspects of their cultures, especially in private spheres.

The Decline of Sugar and Political Instability

By the late 16th century, São Tomé's sugar industry waned as Brazil's more productive and higher-quality sugar took precedence. The island's industry further suffered from political instability, frequent governor mortality, and colonial infighting. A shifting global economic perspective diminished São Tomé's importance and led many planters to relocate to Brazil.

Trade, Transition, and the Persistence of the Slave Market

As the plantation economy dissolved, São Tomé transitioned to small-scale agriculture and became a provisioning ground for slave ships headed to the Americas. Despite slavery's official prohibition, the clandestine trade lingered, underscoring the economic reliance on this inhumane practice.