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.
In this new activity from History Study Center (login, free trial), learn more about the history of the Olympic movement and decide what the Olympics mean on a personal level.
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.
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.
Learning Activity
Assign students to explore the editorially-created study unit that focuses on the history of the Olympic Games. In their reading, students should pay particular attention to the introduction, browse through the history of the games as expressed in 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.
Then assign students to write a 500- to 1,000-word personal essay on what the Olympic Games mean to them. Caution students about relying too heavily on generalities in their essays. Have them support their ideas about what the Olympics mean by referring to specific events in the history of the Olympic Games and/or by referring to memories they have of watching the games.
The first modern Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, in 1896
