The ancient Olympic Games were initially a one-day event until 684 BC, when they were extended to three days. In the 5th century B.C., the Games were extended again to cover five days. The ancient Games included running, long jump, shot put, javelin, boxing, pankration and equestrian events. The ancient Greeks loved competition of all sorts. Each year, the various city-states of Greece sent athletes to festivals of games, which were held to honor the gods. The most important and prestigious were the games held at Olympia to honor Zeus, the king of the gods.The modern Olympic games began in 1896.
The ancient Olympics were held only throughout Greece, for Greeks; the modern Games are held around the world, for people of every nation. The ancient games allowed only men to compete. ... Both men and women compete, though separately. They were canceled during the World Wars.
