The first modern Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, in 1896
The 1896 revival of the Olympic Games of ancient Greece came about under the direction of Frenchman Baron Pierre de Coubertin (1863-1937).
Founded on the ideals of world cooperation and athletic excellence, the first modern games were held in Athens, Greece. Since then, barring times of international conflict, the Olympics have been held throughout the world, with the number of competitors, nations, and events increasing steadily.
For others, the Olympics are a modern manifestation of an ancient tradition; they offer a chance to revel in feelings of national pride based on the athletic accomplishments of their countrymen and women. And for still others, the Olympics are a time of international cooperation; athletes and spectators from around the world get to know each other. The games celebrate the diversity of the world’s peoples, countries, and cultures.
People participate in and watch the Olympics for a variety of reasons. For many, the Olympic Games provide an unsurpassed opportunity to see some of the world’s most gifted athletes in competition.
Path Finder – these articles along with others can be found in SIRS Knowledge Source
- The Road to Olympia
- Let the Games Begin
- The First Olympics
- The Games of the Gods
- Our First Olympics
- Olympics tag at delicio.us (Great websites)
Learning Activity
- Explore the history of the Olympic Games. Pay particular attention to the historical timeline, read some of the periodical articles dealing with Olympic history and ideals, and look at a number of the photos that have been taken during the games.
