Ternate

Ternate was a clove-producing island kingdom in Maluku, also known as Gapi. In 1337 its ruler bore the title Kolano, and its spice trade brought rivalry with neighbouring Tidore.

In the late 15th century the royal family embraced Islam under Marhum, and Zainal Abidin took the title of sultan. The Portuguese began a fort in 1522, but after they murdered Sultan Hairun, Baabullah besieged and expelled them in 1575. Spain seized the fort in 1606; after a failed war against the Dutch, Ternate became their vassal by treaty in 1683.