360The first modern Olympic Games open in Athens
In April 1896, the first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens, revived by the French educator Pierre de Coubertin. About 240 athletes from 14 countries competed in 43 events. The Olympics have since grown into the world's largest sporting event, held every four years.
The ancient Olympic Games were held in Greece for more than a thousand years. In the 19th century, the French educator Pierre de Coubertin wanted to revive them to promote sport and international friendship. In 1894, he founded the International Olympic Committee in Paris.
The first modern Games opened in Athens on 6 April 1896, in the restored Panathenaic Stadium. Around 240 male athletes from 14 countries competed in sports including athletics, cycling, fencing, gymnastics, swimming, tennis and wrestling.
The American James Connolly won the triple jump, becoming the first modern Olympic champion. The highlight for the hosts was the new marathon race, won by the Greek runner Spyridon Louis.
Women first competed in 1900. The Winter Olympics began in 1924 and the Paralympic Games in 1960. Today, more than 200 national teams take part, making the Olympics the world's largest sporting event.
- 1894
- International Olympic Committee founded
- 6 April 1896
- First modern Games open
- 1900
- Women compete for the first time
- 2028
- Los Angeles hosts the Summer Games for the third time
Sources: International Olympic Committee · Britannica.