Sir Thomas Roe

diplomat

Sir Thomas Roe was an English diplomat and merchant who served as the first ambassador of England to the Mughal Empire in India during the early 17th century. He is best known for his mission to the court of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, where he successfully secured trading rights for the East India Company at the port of Surat. Roe's visit marked a significant turning point in Anglo-Indian relations, paving the way for increased British influence in India and ultimately leading to nearly 200 years of British colonial rule. His diplomatic efforts and observations helped shape the understanding of Mughal culture and politics in Europe.