Why did the Dutch begin to sell firearms to West Africa?

Question

a.They wanted to keep up with the other European traders.
b.They knew it would lead to an increase in enslaved peoples.
c.The Portuguese could not supply enough firearms.
d.The pope lifted his ban on firearms sales to non-Christians.

Answer 1

The most fitting answer is:

a. They wanted to keep up with the other European traders.

The Dutch were involved in the competitive trading environment of West Africa, where firearms were valuable for both trade and providing local rulers with military power. Selling firearms allowed them to establish and maintain their trading relationships in the region and compete effectively with other European powers.