Culture, Traditions, and People
The Greeks, on the other hand, have a culture that is characterized by big personalities, big emotions, and big festivals that allow everyone to show off to everyone else. This desire to be seen and recognized began with rivalries between the Ancient Greek City-States who were constantly trying to out-do each other, whether that was on the battle field, in athletic events, or with the richness of their dress and celebrations. That desire to “show-off” was still very prevalent during the 1896 Olympic Games and the Greeks did everything that they could impress their international guests as well as set the standard for all international sporting events to come. And with the creation of the Olympic Motto, the composing of the Olympic Anthem, and the Releasing of Doves to represent peaceful competition the Greeks were successful in leaving their permanent mark on the games and ensuring that their culture and traditions would always be deeply infused with the Games.