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Originally organized by Ancient Greece, the tradition of the Olympics is attributed mythically to Heracles, son of Zeus. It is said that upon finishing his legendary 12 labors he held the first festival in honor of his father. Archaeologically, the first evidence of the ancient Olympics comes from 776 BCE, where it began as a footrace in Olympia. Eventually, the institution expanded, being held every four years and encompassing a greater variety of events.

Much like the modern version, the ancient Olympics consisted of both feats of athleticism and tests of combative prowess. There were several running events, including one that was performed in full armor. The pentathlon gave birth to some events recognizable today, such as the javelin throw, discus toss and the long jump. Equestrian competition was also present in the form of such events as chariot races. Wrestling was, of course, included, as was boxing – though in a more brutal form than is seen today.

In addition to the games, the festival of the ancient Olympics was a time of peace and sacrifice to the gods. Kingdoms that might otherwise be at war came together, competing against each other, negotiating alliances and forming political ties. The importance of Olympia as a political tool of power and prestige often made it the target of covetous kingdoms during times of war.

As a reward for their victories, the participants in the Olympics were given wreaths of laurel leaves and often stories were composed which told of their deeds, victories and the honor they brought to their kingdoms. For the leaders of those kingdoms, victory of their citizens meant prestige and influence over their rivals.

Eventually, the rise of Roman culture began to overtake this practice of the Greeks, and the Olympics fell into decline. It is believed that in either 393 CE or 435 CE the games ceased altogether, rubbed out as a pagan ritual under the growing influence of Christianity. No more Olympic games were held until the modern era, when the tradition was revived in the late 19th century.

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The New Year is here, and it is officially 2012. That means there will be a leap year, and the Summer Olympics will also return after a four-year hiatus. The question on most peoples' minds this time around centers around whether or not Michael Phelps will remain the king of the swimming pool. Most of the viewers from the US who tune in to the games this year will be watching to see if Phelps can keep his position secure as the best swimmer the world has ever seen. Will he be able to repeat his historic 2008 performance? Only time will tell. [...]

The first modern Olympic Games were held in the city of Athens in 1896. These games were the first to be held under the leadership of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) formed in 1890 by Baron Pierre de Coubertin. The intention of the IOC was to create a sporting event, held every four years, which would not only emulate the ancient sporting competitions of the Greeks, but also bring together the nations of the world in a harmonious athletic event. [...]