Amit's Blog

The Rise and Ruin of the Spanish Colonial Empire: Ambition, Wealth, and Waning Power From the 1480s to the 1920s, Spain’s colonial empire soared through bold exploration, Catholic fervor, and American silver, dominating from Mexico to Manila. Columbus and Cortés, backed by a unified Crown, secured vast territories, while Portugal carved out African and Asian routes. Spain’s early lead faltered due to bullion dependence, rigid mercantilism, and weak financial systems. By the 17th century, the Dutch and British, with dynamic stock markets and naval supremacy, surpassed Spain. Wars, inflation, and colonial revolts eroded its empire, with Latin America breaking free by 1825 and Cuba lost in 1898. African holdings lingered until 1975. This essay dissects Spain’s rise, stagnation, and fall, detailing pivotal moments, their financial and geopolitical impacts, and parallels with Portugal. Contrasting Spain’s decline with northern European rivals, it tells a saga of imperial ambition and obso...

  Preamble Following its independence in 1947, India faced the monumental task of consolidating a fragmented nation, not only integrating princely states but also reclaiming territories under foreign control or unique geopolitical circumstances. Goa, Pondicherry, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Sikkim presented distinct challenges due to colonial legacies, geographical isolation, cultural diversity, and international scrutiny. Portugal’s refusal to cede Goa, France’s hesitance over Pondicherry, and Sikkim’s status as a protectorate tested India’s diplomatic and military resolve. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, though less contentious, required administrative ingenuity to govern remote regions with indigenous populations. India’s success in integrating these territories stemmed from a blend of strategic diplomacy, military decisiveness, and democratic legitimacy, often against the backdrop of Cold War tensions and international pressures. By levera...