The First Olympic Games Had Only 14 Events and 241 Athletes

When the International Olympic Committee revived the Olympic Games in 1896 in Athens, Greece, it was a much more modest affair than today's massive global event. The 1896 Athens Olympics featured just 14 sporting events, 241 athletes, all of whom were male, from 14 different nations.

The games were organized by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, who championed the revival of ancient Greek Olympic traditions. The United States won the most gold medals (11), while Greece won the most total medals. Admission to most events was free, and the marathon — the most celebrated event — was won by Greek water carrier Spiridon Louis.