On 13 February 1601, the British East India Company embarked on its maiden voyage, marking the inception of England’s imperial foray into global trade and dominion.
A fleet of five vessels, spearheaded by the formidable Red Dragon under the command of Sir James Lancaster, set sail from London, braving the unpredictable tempests and perils of the high seas.
This audacious expedition, spanning nearly sixteen arduous months, laid the foundation for Britain’s eventual commercial and colonial grip over the Indian subcontinent and beyond, forever altering the course of maritime history.