Sports
When were the first modern Olympic Games?
1896 AD
The first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens from 6 to 15 April 1896 AD.
1 BC · 1 AD
Context
What happened?
Pierre de Coubertin led the revival, drawing on the ancient Greek games and on earlier festivals organised by Evangelis Zappas and William Penny Brookes. Athletics and wrestling took place in the restored Panathenaic Stadium, with other events spread across Athens.
Significance
Why it matters
Around 241 athletes from fourteen nations competed, although both counts are disputed and no women were permitted to take part. The games established a four-year international cycle that has since been interrupted only by war.
Further reading
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