Ceuta and Portuguese Military Expeditions in North Africa
The 15th century marked a period of significant Portuguese expansion into North Africa, beginning with the strategic occupation of Ceuta in 1415. This foothold served as a base for subsequent military operations aimed at securing the region and neutralizing threats from local powers and piracy.
The Campaign Against Chefchaouen
In 1490, King John II organized a major expedition targeting Ali Ibn Rashid al-Alam (known in Portuguese as "Barraxa"), the Moroccan qaid—a local governor or leader—of Chefchaouen. The King entrusted the command of this mission to Dom Fernando de Meneses, the son of the Marquis of Vila Real, providing him with a fleet of 50 ships.
Upon arriving at Gibraltar, Dom Fernando communicated his intent to disembark at Ceuta to launch an attack on Chefchaouen. However, his brother, Dom António de Meneses, the captain of Ceuta, advised against the campaign, arguing that an attack on Chefchaouen was impractical.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The Raid on Targa
Following the advice of Dom António, Dom Fernando shifted his objective to the town of Targa, located southeast of Ceuta. Targa was recognized at the time as a haven for pirates. The expeditionary force grew to include Spanish volunteers, totaling 1,870 foot soldiers and 130 horsemen.
The Portuguese approach caused the inhabitants of Targa to evacuate the settlement immediately, leaving behind significant resources. The Portuguese forces successfully captured 25 ships, 370 people, and various weaponry, including cannons. Additionally, they released several Christian prisoners of war before razing the town and destroying the surrounding agricultural fields.
The Sack of Comice
Seeking further military success later that year, Dom Fernando collaborated with the captains of Portuguese Tangier and Alcácer-Ceguer. Together, they targeted a town in the Rif mountains identified by the Portuguese as Comice.
This combined force consisted of 1,200 foot soldiers and 400 horsemen. The operation resulted in the sacking of the town and the seizure of cattle, horses, and a number of captives ranging between 100 and 1,000 people. The Portuguese suffered 40 fatalities during the action.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Initial Occupation: Portugal occupied Ceuta in 1415.
- Command: Dom Fernando de Meneses led the 1490 expeditions.
- Targa Force: 1,870 foot soldiers and 130 horsemen.
- Targa Spoils: 25 ships and 370 captives captured.
- Comice Force: 1,200 foot soldiers and 400 horsemen.
- Comice Casualties: 40 Portuguese soldiers died.
| Target Location | Primary Objective/Reason | Force Composition | Key Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Targa | Pirate haven | 1,870 foot, 130 horse | 25 ships captured; town razed |
| Comice | Rif mountains settlement | 1,200 foot, 400 horse | 100-1,000 captives; 40 Portuguese deaths |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the attack on Chefchaouen cancelled?
Dom António de Meneses, the captain of Ceuta, dissuaded Dom Fernando de Meneses from the campaign because he considered the attack on Chefchaouen to be impractical.
What was the significance of Targa to the Portuguese?
Targa was targeted because it was known as a pirate haven located to the southeast of Ceuta.
Who supported Dom Fernando de Meneses in the attack on Comice?
He was joined by the captains of Portuguese Tangier and Alcácer-Ceguer.
How many ships were initially provided for the 1490 expedition?
King John II provided Dom Fernando de Meneses with 50 ships for the expedition.
What happened to the town of Targa after the Portuguese landing?
After capturing ships, weapons, and prisoners, the Portuguese razed the town and destroyed its surrounding agricultural fields.