Pedro Mascarenhas

D. Pedro Mascarenhas, born in 1484, was a prominent Portuguese explorer and colonial administrator whose contributions to the Age of Discovery were significant. In 1512, he became the first European to discover the island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, and he also encountered the island of Mauritius during the same expedition. Although he may not have been the first Portuguese to reach these islands, his explorations were pivotal in mapping the region.

In addition to his explorations, Mascarenhas served as an ambassador from Portugal to the Holy See. His diplomatic mission was marked by his appeal to Pope Paul III for the arrival of the first Jesuits to support Portuguese missions in India, a request made by King John III and Diogo de Gouveia. This mission concluded on 15 March 1540, when he returned to Portugal alongside Francis Xavier.

Upon his return, Mascarenhas took on a significant role in the Portuguese court, particularly in the education and household of Prince John, the son of King John III. His involvement extended to the strategic withdrawal of Portuguese forces from Moroccan fortresses in 1549, showcasing his influence in both governance and military matters.

In 1554, despite his advanced age, Mascarenhas was appointed viceroy of India by King John III, a position he reluctantly accepted. He governed from Goa, the capital of Portuguese Asia, until his death in 1555. During his tenure, he was instrumental in sending Fr. James Dias and Fr. Gonçalo Rodrigues to Ethiopia to assess the Emperor Galawdewos's receptiveness to receiving a Patriarch from the Roman Catholic Church. His legacy continued through his successor, Francisco Barreto.