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History Extra podcast
Olympic History: everything you wanted to know
Aug 9, 2024
David Goldblatt, a noted Olympic historian and author of "The Games: A Global History of the Olympics," teams up with commentator Spencer Mizen to dive into the fascinating journey of the Olympic Games. They discuss the ancient Greek origins and the remarkable revival in the 19th century, shedding light on the chaotic 1900 Paris Games. The conversation also touches on the significant evolution of women's participation and the impactful stories of athletes who overcame adversity, making it a captivating exploration of Olympic history.
45:28
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Quick takeaways
- The Ancient Olympics, rooted in Greek culture, evolved from a local festival into a significant competition honoring Zeus by the 5th century.
- Jesse Owens' monumental achievements at the 1936 Olympics not only defied Nazi racial ideology but also became pivotal in America's fight against racism and civil rights.
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Origins of the Ancient Olympics
The Ancient Olympics started around the 11th century BCE as a local festival at Olympia, evolving into a regional competition by the 7th century. By the 5th century, participants from across the Hellenic world gathered to compete, with the games becoming integral to Greek culture as a religious festival honoring Zeus. The Romans later embraced the Olympics, greatly enhancing its infrastructure, though the event waned after Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire. By the 4th century CE, the games faded from public consciousness, only to be revived over a millennium later through archaeological interest.
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Discover
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