When was Tomé Pires born and where did he grow up?
Tomé Pires was born around 1468 in the Portuguese town of Leiria. His father served as apothecary to King João II of Portugal.
Questions about Tomé Pires
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What role did Tomé Pires hold for Prince Alfonso before 1491?
Tomé Pires took up the role of apothecary for Prince Alfonso, the heir apparent to the throne. This position held until Prince Alfonso died in 1491.
Where did Tomé Pires arrive in 1511 after being commissioned by the Portuguese court?
Tomé Pires arrived at Cannanore in 1511 carrying the title of factor of drugs in India. He later traveled to Malacca two years later after it was captured by Portuguese forces.
Which islands did Tomé Pires visit personally during his travels in Asia?
Tomé Pires personally visited Java, Sumatra and Maluku to gather details firsthand. These travels formed the basis for his future writings on Asian trade routes.
Why did the Chinese court refuse to receive Tomé Pires in 1516?
The Chinese court refused to receive him due to suspicion regarding Portuguese traders. A plot moved by the deposed sultan Mahmud Shah further complicated matters and led to the death of some embassy members.