Where was the 1904 Olympics held? The 1904 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the III Olympiad, took place in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. This edition of the Olympics was notable for being the first to be held in North America and for its unique circumstances, as it coincided with the Louisiana Purchase Exposition, a world’s fair that was also held in St. Louis that year.
The 1904 Olympics were originally scheduled to be held in Chicago, Illinois, but due to the city’s failure to secure the necessary funding and facilities, the Games were relocated to St. Louis. The decision to move the Games to St. Louis was influenced by the promise of financial support from the city and the opportunity to showcase its hosting capabilities during the world’s fair.
The 1904 Olympics featured 12 sports, including the first appearances of basketball, boxing, and lacrosse. However, the Games were overshadowed by the world’s fair, which drew more attention and participants. In fact, the number of athletes and events at the 1904 Olympics was significantly lower than those of previous editions, which contributed to the Games being overshadowed in the history books.
Despite the low number of athletes and events, the 1904 Olympics still produced some memorable moments. For instance, Thomas Hicks, an American marathon runner, was famously injected with strychnine and brandy to keep him going during the race. Hicks completed the marathon in a remarkable time of 2:55:50, which is still considered one of the greatest performances in the history of the event.
The 1904 Olympics also marked the first time that African American athletes were allowed to compete in the Games. African American sprinter John Baxter Taylor Jr. won the bronze medal in the 100-meter dash, becoming the first African American to win an Olympic medal.
In conclusion, the 1904 Olympics were held in St. Louis, Missouri, and while they were overshadowed by the world’s fair and had a lower number of athletes and events, they still produced memorable moments and paved the way for future Olympic Games in North America.
