The games began in Olympia in 776 BCE as a way to honor the Olympian gods. In addition to honoring the gods, it was a way for men, because men were the only participants and observers, to demonstrate their physical capabilities. When the games were held, wars between city states came to a stand still. In fact, the wars were paused before the games so that the warriors could train for the games. These games ended in 393 CE.
The modern Olympic Games began in 1894 when Pierre de Coubertin founded the governing body of the Olympics. The first games were held in 1896 in Athens. Only 14 nations participated. Today, wars are not halted for the games. Athletes are rarely warriors who must take time away from war to train for competition. Instead, some Games have been cancelled because of World War One and Two. Politics often interfere with the Games, as was the case with the Summer Games held in Munich in 1972. The Games aren't perfect, but they are a feat the human race should be proud of.
(Nike of Paeonios, statue that was in Zeus's temple at Olympia.)
(Alter of Hera at Olympia, the location where the Olympic flame was lit.)
(Entrance to the Olympic Statdium.)
(Starting line in Olympic Stadium)
(Olympic Stadium, spectators would recline on the hillsides while the officials were located in the box on the right.)
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