Part 7/10:
Arrival at the Cape of Good Hope
Upon reaching the Cape, Pete found the fort a welcome departure from ship life. The lush landscape, vibrant colors, and aromas of fresh food invigorated him. However, after re-supplying, reality set in again as the ship sailed away from the shoreline. The journey resumed with dwindling hope, as fatigue and illness weighed heavily on the crew.
The Spice Islands and Conflict
Arriving at Batavia (modern-day Jakarta) marked a shift in Pete’s life, as he navigated a tapestry of cultures. The vibrant mix of people became a striking contrast to the monochrome life he had previously known. However, the stark realities of exploitation became apparent as the VOC pursued economic advantages regardless of the local populace’s wellbeing.