The Olympic GamesBY: Jennifer & Byron

Ancient Olympic Games| HistoryThe first Olympic games started in 776 BC. They were held in Olympia, Greece. The games were dedicated to many Olympian gods. They were aimed to show physical qualities and evolution of the performances accomplished by young people. The competitors had to compete in complete nude. All free male Greek citizens could participate in the games. Women who were married were not allowed to participate or watch the games. Unmarried women were only allowed to watch. In 393 AD emperor Theodosius banned the games 12 centuries after they began.

Ancient Olympics| WinnersWhen someone would win, they received their awards right after the competition. A Hellanodikis (Greek judge) would place a palm branch in his hands. Spectors threw flowers and cheered. Red ribbons were tied to his head and hands. The official ceremony took place on the last day of the games in the temple of Zeus. The heraid then announced the winner’s name, father’s name, and his homeland.The Hellanodikis would then place the sacred olive tree wreath on the winner’s head.

Modern Day OlympicsModern day Olympics are quite different from the ancient ones. After the games were ended in 393 AD, they were started again in Athens, Greece in 1896. They are now held every four and there are even winter Olympics. Another big change is that women and other people of and race or gender are allowed to compete and watch the games. They are also allowed to compete fully clothed.

Comparisons PT1|Modern vs. AncientAncient Olympics Modern OlympicsGirls were not allowed to

compete or watchCompetitors had to compete

nakedWinners got olive tree

wreaths on their heads

Games are held every 4 yearsDifferent places around the

worldWinners receive medals

Ancient Olympics Modern OlympicsSame

• Sport Competitions

Comparisons PT2|SportsAncient Sports Modern Day Sports

JumpingDiscus ThrowWrestlingPankrationBoxingEquestrian Events Archery

AquaticsFencingGymnasticsWeightliftingSoccerBasketballVolleyballTaekwondoTriathlon

Ancient SportsModern Sports

Same

• Running• Boxing• Wrestling

Hosting the GamesHosts show their culture by putting up lots of decorations that represent their country. They will put their flag everywhere Olympic Games related. Many countries will sometimes even have parades and festivals so that tourists can get a small idea of what their culture is about.