The modern Olympics originated in Athens, Greece, in 1896. This revival of the ancient Olympic Games, which date back to 776 BC, aimed to promote peace and unity among nations through athletic competition. The initiative was led by Pierre de Coubertin, who believed in the educational and cultural value of sports. The first modern Olympics featured 13 countries and 43 events, primarily focused on athletics, gymnastics, and wrestling. Today, the Olympics have grown to include hundreds of countries and a diverse array of sports, evolving into a symbol of international cooperation and athletic excellence.