Olympic Games: History, Traditions, and Ancient Events

The Olympic Games

The Olympic Games are an international sporting event celebrated every four years. They are organized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). All countries are invited to participate under two flags: their national flag and the Olympic flag, which is composed of five interconnected rings of different colors. Each ring represents one of the five continents.

Historical Periods

The Games are historically divided into two periods:

• The Ancient Olympic Games (776 BC - 393 AD)
• The Modern Olympic Games (1896 to present)

The Ancient Olympic Games

The Ancient Games were celebrated in Olympia, located on a Greek island called "Katakolon." To participate, athletes needed to meet three requirements:

1. Be Greek
2. Be a man (women were not allowed to participate)
3. Be free (slaves could not participate)

The Games were held for religious reasons, to honor Zeus, and also for political reasons. Athletes represented themselves and their families. Winners received glory, enough money to live comfortably, and social respect. Their families also received a significant prize: a portion of the taxes paid by all citizens of a specific area of the city for four years, which was a substantial amount of money.

Slaves were often in the best physical condition but could not participate. The Greeks found a solution through adoption. They freed their best slaves on the condition that they participate in the Games representing their "new family." Refusal often meant death. However, this was not cheap, as it increased family size, requiring proper feeding and training in a palestra (gym), either public or private. A trainer was also needed, and all these expenses were necessary for a real chance of victory in the Ancient Olympic Games.

Events

Races

Three races were the most famous:

1. Stadion: One lap of the stadium (192 meters; today, it's 400 meters).
2. Diaulos: Two laps of the stadium.
3. Hoplitodromos: Two laps of the stadium while wearing full military equipment (helmet, shield, armor, lance). This was the most famous race because it demonstrated that the athlete was also the best soldier.

Combat Sports

• Greek Wrestling: The objective was to knock down the opponent and make them touch the floor with their shoulders on their back three times. Each successful takedown earned one point. It was challenging because the athletes covered their bodies with oil, making their skin very slippery.
• Boxing: This was quite dangerous because there were no distinctions based on age or weight. There were no rounds or time limits, and no rest time. You won if you knocked out your opponent or if they decided to quit.