Sir Thomas Roe — The First English Ambassador
The Foundation of Empire
The first English ambassador to the Mughal court, whose embassy established the foundation of British diplomatic and commercial relations with India, leading to the eventual British Raj.
Court Life
He described the court of Jahangir, including the emperor's interest in Christianity. He documented the practice of jharokha-darshan (public audience) and the wealth of the Mughal court and the system of jagirs.
Trade Concessions
He negotiated trade concessions for the East India Company, establishing the commercial framework that would eventually lead to British colonial rule.
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