Olympism, a world history : an unprecedented retrospective of the Olympic Games
Until September 8, the Palais de la Porte Dorée in Paris is hosting the exhibition "Olympism, A World History." In this year marked by the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the exhibition aims to trace 130 years of Olympic history, from the first Games in Athens in 1896 to the Paris Games in 2024.
By the editorial team
Organized in partnership with the Achac Research Group, this exhibition highlights the geopolitical, social, and cultural developments that have shaped the Olympic Games. Through a chronological journey in six major sections, visitors will explore the challenges and transformations of the Olympiads, including the canceled events of 1916, 1940, and 1944. With nearly 600 works, documents, archival films, objects, and photographs, the exhibition provides an immersive look into the behind-the-scenes of the Games, emphasizing struggles for equality, ecological challenges, and significant historical moments.
The games to assert rights and struggles
The exhibition explores the Olympic Games as a space for reflection on geopolitical and social issues. Iconic figures such as Jesse Owens, Tommie Smith, and Cathy Freeman are showcased, illustrating how athletes have used the Games to assert their rights and struggles. Contemporary challenges such as eco-responsibility, inclusivity, and gender parity are also addressed, offering a critical and forward-looking perspective on the future of the Games.
An exhibition that addresses Africa in several Important contexts
Among these is the fight against Apartheid. The exhibition highlights significant moments in the struggle against Apartheid, notably the 1976 Olympic Games boycott in Montreal by African nations in response to South Africa’s racial policies.
More broadly, African athletes, such as long-distance runners and sprinters, are highlighted for their remarkable performances and impact on the Olympic Games. Their success on the world stage is presented as a symbol of African athletes’ ability to challenge prejudices and carve out a place in Olympic history.
Historical African figures
The exhibition recalls notable African athletes, such as marathon runner Ahmed Boughéra El Ouafi, who won a gold medal for France in 1928, and other iconic figures who have marked the history of the Olympic Games.
The exhibition also addresses the challenges Africa has faced in participating in the Games, including issues of funding, infrastructure, and international recognition. Thus, the exhibition provides a comprehensive and inclusive perspective on Olympic history, integrating the contributions and struggles of African athletes while highlighting the social and political issues that have affected the continent in the context of the Olympic Games.
This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of the Olympic Games and reflect on the future challenges and transformations of this iconic global event.
The exhibition curators include renowned experts such as Nicolas Bancel, Pascal Blanchard, and Élisabeth Jolys-Shimells, ensuring a multidimensional approach to Olympic history.
For more information : palais-portedoree.fr
