INTRODUCTION
Bringing together more than 206 nations, the modern Olympic Games, also known as the Olympic Games, represent the largest gathering of athletes from all over the world. The various participants come together in some forty disciplines to share their performances in Olympic events. Today, these events are part of a prestigious world organisation, but their history remains just as captivating.
THE ANCIENT HISTORY OF THE OLYMPIC GAMES
The Olympic Games have their origins in ancient Greece, some 3,000 years ago. They owe their existence to the religion of ancient Greece. Although it is difficult to pinpoint the exact date of their beginnings, it is estimated that the first Olympic Games took place in 776 BC. According to mythology, the reason for the Olympic Games was the veneration of the Greek god Zeus for his victory over Kronos. Another myth postulates that the Games were instituted to celebrate Zeus’ victory over the Elidian king Augias. The invention of the ancient Olympic Games is attributed to Heracles of Ida.
THE MODERN OLYMPIC GAMES
It was in 1894 that the project for the modern Olympic Games was launched on the initiative of Pierre de Coubertin (1863-1937), a French historian. Known for his attachment to the spirit of sport, from which his famous quote stems: ‘The important thing is to participate’, Coubertin organised the first International Athletic Congress in Paris that same year. This congress laid the foundations for the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Two years later, in 1896, 13 nations took part in the first modern Olympic Games in Athens.
Pierre de Coubertin’s vision transformed what had been a mythical game into a universal event, emphasising sportsmanship and international brotherhood. Today, the Olympic Games continue to represent not only athletic excellence, but also an ideal of harmony and human dignity. They demonstrate that, despite historical changes, the Olympic Games remain a timeless symbol of unity and progress. The Olympic Charter states that ‘the aim of Olympism is to place sport at the service of the harmonious development of mankind with a view to promoting a peaceful society concerned with the preservation of human dignity’.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the Olympic Games, whether ancient or modern, embody a profound link between civilisations throughout the ages. Originating in ancient Greece, where they served to honour the gods and celebrate mythological values, the Games have evolved to meet contemporary aspirations for a peaceful and united world.
