Dan Snow's History Hit A History of Cheating at the Olympics
Jul 29, 2024
James Harkin and Anna Ptaszynski, authors and members of the QI Elves, dive into the riveting world of cheating in sports as the 2024 Olympics approach. They explore audacious stories, like the man who jumped into a car during the 1904 marathon and twins swapping places at the Los Angeles long jump. Delving into historical contexts, they discuss motivations behind cheating, the emotional complexities involved, and how pervasive this phenomenon has been throughout sports history, shedding light on our fascination with fame and victory.
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Why High Achievers Cheat More
- Cheating provides a psychological high, but also causes guilt that can stop further cheating.
- High achievers cheat more due to pressure to maintain superiority and identity in their skill.
Cheating Dates Back to Ancient Greece
- Ancient Greek Pankration athletes were depicted cheating and referees disciplining them around 500 BC.
- Cheating in sports dates back at least 2,500 years, showing its long-standing presence in competition.
Cheating Linked to Olympic Origins
- Ancient ruler allegedly cheated in a chariot race by replacing metal parts with wax to win a bride.
- He then founded the Olympics, highlighting cheating was entwined with the Games' origin story.