Abel Tasman
A Dutch explorer who lived in the 17th century, he served as a captain under the Dutch East India Company. He became especially famous for his voyages in 1642 and 1644 to the South Pacific Ocean. In these voyages, he discovered Fiji, New Zealand, and Tasmania. Now, Tasman did not actually name Tasmania after himself. In fact, he originally named the island Van Diemen’s Land after his corporate sponsor, Anthony van Diemen. It wasn’t until 1856 that the island gained its modern name under British rule.
Ironically, despite his historical accomplishments, the Dutch East India Company found Tasman’s discoveries disappointing. This resulted from the lack of easily-exploited resources or opportunities for large-scale trade. Tasman eventually retired in Batavia, in what would later become Jakarta, and died in 1859.
Alfonso de Albuquerque
A Portuguese military officer, de Albuquerque became famous as Viceroy of Portuguese India in the early 16th century. He went to South Asia with the goals of fighting Muslims, spreading Christianity, and giving Portugal direct access to the spice markets of the Orient.
Historians generally consider him the greatest naval commander of his generation, particularly leading the first European fleet to ever sail into the Red Sea. He also raided the coasts of the Persian Gulf, aimed at cutting off Muslim access to the sea lanes leading in and out of the Indian Ocean. Other highlights of his military career include the capture of Goa in 1510 and the capture of Malacca in 1511.
Alfonso also proved his talents outside of the military as a civilian administrator. During his administration of Portuguese India, he opened up diplomatic relations with Burma, Ethiopia, Persia, Siam, and Timor. He also worked with Rafael Perestrello in getting Ming China to at least consider opening itself up for trade with Europe.
