PORTUGUESE INFLUENCE IN HOI AN (VIETNAM) IN COMPARISON WITH MALACCA (MALAYSIA) AND AYUTTHAYA (THAILAND) DURING THE 16TH AND 17TH CENTURIES

The purpose of this article is to analyse the influence of Portugal in Malacca and Ayutthaya in comparison with Hoi An from the sixteenth century to the seventeenth century in the context of commerce and evangelism. On that basis, this study shows both the similarities and the differences in Portuguese operations in these three ports. Finally, the article makes some observations about the distinct features of Hoi An in the process of trading and of receiving Christianity from merchants and congregations under the patronage of the Portuguese Crown. In order to carry out this study, the main method used was the historical analysis method, combined with comparative research based on relevant sources. In particular, besides monographs, the study also draws on the latest research results which have been published in recent years. The results of the article will encourage further study of the method of establishment of Portuguese power in Malacca, Ayutthaya, and Hoi An in the sixteenth century and the seventeenth century and the distinctiveness of Hoi An in the process of receiving the influence of Portugal.