Olympic Games

Lore & Background

The modern Olympic Games were inspired by the ancient Olympic Games, which were religious and athletic festivals held every four years at the sanctuary of Zeus in Olympia, Greece, from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD. The ancient Games featured mainly athletic and combat sports, including wrestling, pankration, and chariot racing. For the first thirteen Olympics, the stadion footrace was the only event.

Reader's Guide

The IOC has adapted to economic, political, and technological changes, shifting from pure amateurism to accepting professional athletes. The Games have grown to the point that nearly every nation is now represented, and colonies and overseas territories often field their own teams. This growth has created challenges including boycotts, doping, match fixing, bribery, and terrorism. Every two years, the Olympics provide athletes with a chance to attain national and international fame, and host cities showcase themselves to the world. The Games foster international cooperation and cultural exchange, while also bringing economic benefits and challenges to host cities.

Did You Know?

• The marathon distance at the Olympics was standardized at 42,195 m in 1924, the distance run at the 1908 Olympics.
• At the 1904 St. Louis Games, the decathlon was called the All-Around competition and included an 800 yard walk and a 56 pounds weight throw.
• The 1600 m relay, the first relay event at the Olympics, consisted of two legs over 200 m, one over 400 m, and one over 800 m.
• The javelin throw (two-handed) event did not involve throwing with both hands simultaneously; distances recorded with each hand were added.
• The 1906 Intercalated Games are no longer regarded as an official part of the Olympic chronology by the IOC.