Every four years, thousands of athletes gather in a distinguished city for the opportunity of a lifetime to show off their talent, dedication, and passion for their sport. It is a significant event across the globe and gains millions of viewers worldwide. Athletes from every nation compete against each other with a sense of unity and pride to reach new possibilities and achievements. Each athlete pushes themselves to the next level for a chance to gain the gold. The history of the Olympics have influenced American athletics and culture and has had a significant impact on society today.
Initially, the Olympics have been around for thousands of years. The games first began between 704 B.C. and 884 B.C. and took place in Ancient Greece (Toropov 6). According to existing myths, …show more content…
Although women did not begin participating until the 1900 Olympic games, women athletes took more prominent roles in the next several decades, specifically in the 1960 games (Maraniss 13). These games were significant because the women 's U.S Olympic team proved they could dominate the games and managed to gain a higher medal count then the Soviets, a major competitor. Despite the sexism surrounding the Olympic Games and the world of sports for women, this set a precedent for future generations of women athletes. One of the most significant women in Olympic history is Hayley Wickenheiser, a member of Canada 's gold-medal-winning Olympic team who has broken down the typical gender roles when it comes to athletics and played as a member of a men’s hockey team (Macqueen 26). The Olympics have also influenced American culture by raising support for those of the LBGTQ community. After Russia’s controversial behavior in the 2014 Sochi Olympics, the International Olympics Committee has taken a stand against future intolerance towards athletes in the LBGTQ
Initially, the Olympics have been around for thousands of years. The games first began between 704 B.C. and 884 B.C. and took place in Ancient Greece (Toropov 6). According to existing myths, …show more content…
Although women did not begin participating until the 1900 Olympic games, women athletes took more prominent roles in the next several decades, specifically in the 1960 games (Maraniss 13). These games were significant because the women 's U.S Olympic team proved they could dominate the games and managed to gain a higher medal count then the Soviets, a major competitor. Despite the sexism surrounding the Olympic Games and the world of sports for women, this set a precedent for future generations of women athletes. One of the most significant women in Olympic history is Hayley Wickenheiser, a member of Canada 's gold-medal-winning Olympic team who has broken down the typical gender roles when it comes to athletics and played as a member of a men’s hockey team (Macqueen 26). The Olympics have also influenced American culture by raising support for those of the LBGTQ community. After Russia’s controversial behavior in the 2014 Sochi Olympics, the International Olympics Committee has taken a stand against future intolerance towards athletes in the LBGTQ