Final answer:
The sequence of European trade empires forming in the Indian Ocean started with the Portuguese in the early 16th century, followed by the Dutch, English, and French. Each established trade posts and competed for control over trade routes and resources with each other and with local powers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sequence of European Trade Empires in the Indian Ocean
The formation of European trade empires in the Indian Ocean began with the Portuguese in the early 16th century. The Portuguese, followed by other European powers, sought to control the rich spice trade and other commodities from Asia. In their quest for an all-water route to Asia to circumvent the Arab traders, they rounded the Cape of Good Hope and ventured into the Indian Ocean maritime network.
The Portuguese Empire was the first European power to establish a foothold in the Indian Ocean by setting up trading posts and fortifications along the coast of Africa and Asia. They were soon followed by other European nations such as the Dutch, the English, and the French, who each in turn established their own trade outposts and competed for dominance in the region.
After the Portuguese, the Dutch East India Company emerged as a significant force, taking control of much of the archipelago now known as Indonesia and parts of the Indian subcontinent. The British East India Company followed, eventually expanding its influence throughout India. The French also sought to establish a presence in the area through the French East India Company. Over time, these European powers competed with each other and with local powers such as the Mughals and Marathas for control over the lucrative trade routes and the resources of the Indian Ocean world.