Pierre De Coubertin: The Reestablishment Of The Olympics

Emperor Theodosius banned them because he considered it to be a “pagan cult” (Olympic).
Pierre de Coubertin initiated the reestablishment of the Olympics. When asked about bringing the Olympic Games back, Coubertin stated, “Why did I restore the Olympic Games? To ennoble and strengthen sports, to ensure their independence and duration, and thus to enable them better to fulfill the educational role incumbent upon them in the modern world (Coubertin).” He was cheered on when he stated his plans of reestablishing the once ancient tradition. The first modern-day Olympic Games began April 6th, 1896, and lasted until April 15th, 1896. This exciting reinstatement was held in the games’ original birthplace, Athens, Greece. The games consisted of 43

The five rings, the most recognized symbol of the Olympics, stands for the five continents of the world. Pierre de Coubertin introduced the rings in 1913. The different colors of the rings, blue, yellow, black, green, red, and a white background, are used to represent all nations, as at least one of those colors is used in every country’s flag. Pierre de Coubertin stated that the rings are linked together to show unity between all nations. The Olympic motto is three Latin words: Citius-Altius-Fortius. In English, this means, “faster, higher, stronger.” Coubertin borrowed this phrase from his friend and Dominican priest, Henri Didon. The motto was introduced in 1894. The last Olympic symbol is the flame. There is a precise ritual relating to the Olympic torch. The torch and relay was first introduced in 1936. It begins with its lightings several months before the games in Olympia, Greece. The torch is only allowed to be lit by the sun’s rays. A new torch is created each year for the games. The Olympic Museum states, “Each relay runner carries his or her own torch: it is the flame which is passed from runner to runner and which cannot be extinguished.” The flame is then carried by relay from Olympia to the site of the host country for each games. On this journey, the flame passes through different countries and continents, continuing the idea that the Olympic Games brings unity throughout the world (The

Although the original origin of the games may not be known, the Olympic Games have provided nations from around the world an opportunity to come together every four years for the participation, judging, and viewing of a number breathtaking events. More countries join in participation of the Olympic Games as the years go on. Along with more participation from those of different countries, there are many more events for the games now than ever