This study will trace the significance of writing, using, circulating, and archiving Portuguese-language manuscripts within and across East Timorese small polities (also known as reinos, kingdoms), and between these and the Portuguese colonial administration, between 1700s and 1900s. The focus will be on the archival practices of Timorese lineages and authorities who were simultaneously acknowledged by the colonial government as vassals of Portugal and as reis (kings) at the head of reinos (kingdoms). We will also address the significance that documents held by Timorese groups could achieve when they were obtained, used, and appropriated by Portuguese colonial agents.

Researchers Ricardo Roque and Luísa Coutinho are involved in this study.