Monday, June 16, 2025

Olympics: Torch Relay at Opening Ceremony Survives Controversial Past

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The Olympic torch will be lit during the Opening Ceremony of the Summer Olympics in Tokyo on Friday, despite COVID-19 restrictions leading to a scaled-down event in a largely empty stadium. This cherished tradition, though celebrated worldwide, has a dark origin linked to Adolf Hitler’s propaganda efforts during the 1936 Berlin Games. Conceived as a symbol of Aryan strength, the torch relay originally aimed to showcase German power while promoting nationalism through its 2,000-mile journey from Greece. While the tradition has evolved into a source of pride and unity among nations, its controversial roots serve as a reminder of the past. The iconic relay, featuring memorable moments like Muhammad Ali lighting the torch in 1996, will continue to captivate audiences, maintaining its significance despite its troubled history.

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