Which ancient civilization is best known for the Olympic Games, pentathlon, discus, and javelin?

Which ancient civilization is best known for the Olympic Games, pentathlon, discus, and javelin?

• A. Romans
• B. Egyptians
• C. Persians
• D. Greeks

Answer: (D)

The origin of the Olympic Games and the classic multi-event competitions centers on ancient Greece. The Greeks organized the Games at Olympia starting around the 8th century BCE and created the pentathlon—a test of overall athletic ability that included running, wrestling, jumping, javelin, and discus. Discus and javelin became staples of their athletic tradition and helped define the Greek sports culture. While other civilizations such as the Romans, Egyptians, and Persians had athletic activities, they did not originate the Olympic festival. So the civilization best known for these events is the Greeks.

The origin of the Olympic Games and the classic multi-event competitions centers on ancient Greece. The Greeks organized the Games at Olympia starting around the 8th century BCE and created the pentathlon—a test of overall athletic ability that included running, wrestling, jumping, javelin, and discus. Discus and javelin became staples of their athletic tradition and helped define the Greek sports culture. While other civilizations such as the Romans, Egyptians, and Persians had athletic activities, they did not originate the Olympic festival. So the civilization best known for these events is the Greeks.