Os judeus de Amesterdão e o comércio com a costa ocidental africana, 1580-1660

Abstract

In this article we examine the participation of the Portuguese Sephardic mercantile community based in Amsterdam and in other Dutch cities in the trade with the western coast of Africa between the 1580s and 1660s. Here, we examine the mechanisms used to finance and insure the vessels and cargoes for this commerce, and study the commercial organization of these ventures. To conclude, we look into their main geographical areas and key branches of investment, and the types of financial and commercial networks built by the Portuguese Sephardi in the Dutch Republic to guarantee their successful involvement in these activities.