1 of 5

Why and how did the Olympics start?

"The Olympic Rings" from http://http://www.texample.net/ by Paul Gaborit

By Zach H.

2 of 5

The Origin of the Olympic Games

  • The first recorded Olympic Games took place in ancient Greece in 776 B.C.
  • The games were dedicated to the Greek gods and were held in the city of Olympia.
  • These games went on for 12 centuries.
  • In 393 A.D., Emperor Theodosius declared that all "pagan cults" would be banned. (Source 1)

3 of 5

The Olympic Games and Greek Religion

  • One legend about the origin of the games was when Zeus fought his father Kronos.
  • After Zeus defeated his father, a temple and a statue were built in a valley called Olympia.
  • People came to the valley to worship Zeus and try to approach his superior strength.
  • These festivals lead to the Olympic Games. (Source 2)

"Temple of Zeus Athens Greece" from http://si.smugmug.com/ by Simon

4 of 5

Olympic Events and Victory Ceremonies

  • New events and sports were added to the games over time.
  • Some events included races, the hoplitodrome (racing in full armor), javelin, discus, and wrestling. (Source 2)
  • The winner of the event would get his name announced and then get a palm branch and red ribbons tied on his head and hands.
  • The audience would cheer and throw flowers. (Source 1)

5 of 5

Bibliography

Source 1:

http://www.olympic.org/ancient-olympic-games

​

Source 2:

http://teacher.scholastic.com/activities/athens_games/history.htm