1996 Olympics
who was involved?
what happened?
where did the event take place?
Why is this important to Georgia history
Several key figures were involved in the organization and execution of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, including then-Mayor Andrew Young, Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games (ACOG) CEO Billy Payne, and International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Juan Antonio Samaranch.
The 1996 Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXVI Olympiad, took place in Atlanta from July 19 to August 4, 1996. This international multi-sport event featured over 10,000 athletes from 197 countries competing in 271 events across 26 sports.
The event took place at various venues throughout Atlanta, including Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Dome, and the Atlanta Olympic Stadium (now known as Turner Field).
The hosting of the 1996 Olympics was significant for Georgia history as it marked the first time the Olympics were held in the American South. The games showcased Atlanta as a global city and provided a boost to its economy and infrastructure. Additionally, the 1996 Olympics had a lasting impact on sports and tourism in Georgia, leaving a legacy that can still be seen in the city today.