Abstract

BETHENCOURT, Francisco. Managing Diversity in the Portuguese Empire. e-JPH [online]. 2021, vol.19, n.2, pp.1-23.  Epub Dec 31, 2021. ISSN 1645-6432.  https://doi.org/10.26300/px7m-4439.

The production of diversity and its transformation into hierarchy and social inequality in the Portuguese Empire are at the core of this essay. Conversion of local populations and slaves to Catholicism was the main strategy used by the Portuguese Empire to create allegiance and reduce diversity. Recognition and integration of indigenous institutions into the imperial political system meant indirect rule at local level and the acceptance of some degree of institutional hybridism with different normative layers. However, slave trade, slavery and classification of populations with discrimination and exclusion of indigenous people constantly produced inequality, while colonial violence and the assertion of Portuguese rule changed local dynamics of power.

Keywords : Management; Diversity; Imperialism; Colonialism; Universalism; Violence; Racism; Hierarchy; Inequality; Slavery; Trade; Religion; Normativity; Hybridism; Rule; State.

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