1996 Summer Olympics

The 1996 Summer Olympics, also called the Centennial Olympic Games, happened in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. They took place from July 19 to August 4, 1996. These Games celebrated the 100th anniversary of the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896. It was the fourth time the United States hosted the Summer Olympics.

Over 10,000 athletes from many countries competed in many sports. Some new sports like beach volleyball, mountain biking, and softball were added for the first time. The United States won the most medals. Amazing athletes included Donovan Bailey running very fast in the men's 100 meters and the Magnificent Seven winning a gold medal in the women's artistic gymnastics team all-around.

The Games helped Atlanta grow. New buildings were made, and after the Olympics, many places were used for other things. For example, the Olympic Village dorms became student housing, and the big Centennial Olympic Stadium turned into a baseball field. Today, Centennial Olympic Park reminds us of the fun and excitement of the 1996 Games.

Many people watched the Olympics on TV, and it brought a lot of visitors to Atlanta. The Games were remembered as a time when the city changed and grew. The next Summer Olympics in the U.S. will be in Los Angeles in 2028.

Fun Facts

New Sports: Beach volleyball, mountain biking, and softball made their Olympic debut.
Athlete Highlights: Donovan Bailey set a world record in the 100-meter race.
Legacy: Atlanta’s new buildings are still used today, like student housing and a baseball field.