Here's a breakdown:
* Early Portuguese Exploration: While the Portuguese were exploring the African coast in the 15th century, they didn't initially focus on the Gold Coast (modern-day Ghana). The first Portuguese explorers who reached the Gold Coast were likely explorers like João Fernandes in the 1470s. However, their initial visits were primarily about exploration and establishing trade routes.
* Portuguese Forts and Trade: The Portuguese established fortified trading posts on the Gold Coast in the late 15th century. The first Portuguese fort built on the Gold Coast was Elmina Castle in 1482. This marked a significant shift from exploration to establishing a permanent presence and controlling trade. This fort was initially led by Diogo d'Azambuja, who is often considered the first Portuguese official to oversee the Portuguese presence on the Gold Coast.
* Governors and Administration: Over time, the Portuguese presence on the Gold Coast evolved. The Portuguese Crown appointed Governors to administer the forts and control trade. João de Sousa, appointed in 1500, is considered the first formal governor of the Gold Coast. However, his role was mostly overseeing trade and not strictly "leading" the Gold Coast in a political or territorial sense.
In Conclusion:
* Early explorers like João Fernandes were the first to reach the Gold Coast.
* Diogo d'Azambuja was the first Portuguese official to establish a permanent presence with the construction of Elmina Castle.
* João de Sousa was the first formal Governor appointed by the Portuguese crown.
It's important to remember that the Portuguese presence on the Gold Coast was a gradual process, evolving from exploration to trade to colonization. There isn't a single "first person" who can be definitively credited with "leading" the Portuguese Gold Coast, as the "leadership" evolved over time with different individuals playing different roles.