How did the Modern Olympics Begin?
Interest in the ancient Olympics prompted the beginnings of the modern Olympics. In the mid 18th century, several British regions held Olympics style festivals. But, unlike the modern Olympics, competitors were mostly British citizens. One of the remnants of these early games is the Wenlock Olympian Society Annual Games, a much-celebrated event in England. The French and the Greeks held athletic competitions numerous times in imitation of the ancient Olympics. These too were primarily restricted to competitors from their own countries, as travel from foreign countries would have proven very challenging and time-consuming.