Indian Ocean Ocean, ultimately reaching the coastal countries of East Africa. In 1497 Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama rounded the Cape of Good Hope and became the first European to sail to India (with the help of an Indian sailor) and later the Far East. The European ships, armed with heavy cannon, quickly dominated trade. Portugal achieved pre-eminence by setting up forts at the important straits and ports. Their hegemony along the coasts of Africa and Asia lasted until the mid 17th century. Later, the Portuguese were challenged by other European powers. The Dutch East India Company (1602–1798) sought control of trade
Portugal at the 2004 Summer Olympics 'A' Standard, and 1 at the 'B' Standard). Four Portuguese judoka (three men and one woman) qualified for the 2004 Summer Olympics. Portuguese sailors have qualified one boat for each of the following events. Two Portuguese shooters qualified to compete in the following events: Portuguese swimmers earned qualifying standards in the following events (up to a maximum of 2 swimmers in each event at the A-standard time, and 1 at the B-standard time): Portugal sent a single triathlete to Athens. Portugal at the 2004 Summer Olympics Portugal competed at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece, from 13 to 29