Demetrius Vikelas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Demetrios Vikelas
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| 1st President of the IOC | |
| In office 1894–1896 |
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| Succeeded by | Pierre de Coubertin |
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| Born | 15 February 1835 Ermoupoli, Greece |
| Died | 20 July 1908 (aged 73) Athens, Greece |
Demetrios Vikelas (also Demetrius Bikelas; Greek: Δημήτριος Βικέλας; February 15, 1835 – July 20, 1908) was a Greek businessman and writer. He is best known as the first President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). He held this important role from 1894 to 1896.
Vikelas played a key part in bringing the Olympic Games back to life. He helped organize the first modern Olympic Games in Athens, Greece.
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Early Life and Interests
Demetrios Vikelas was born in 1835 in Ermoupoli, a city in Greece. His family was involved in trade and business. As a young man, he moved to London, England, to work in his father's business.
Even though he was a businessman, Vikelas loved literature and writing. He spent a lot of his free time studying and translating books. He translated many famous works, including plays by William Shakespeare, into Greek. He also wrote his own stories and essays.
Bringing Back the Olympics
In the late 1800s, a French educator named Pierre de Coubertin had a big idea. He wanted to bring back the ancient Olympic Games. These games had not been held for over 1,500 years. Coubertin believed that sports could help bring people together and promote peace.
Coubertin organized a special meeting in Paris, France, in 1894. This meeting was called the International Athletic Congress. Its goal was to plan the revival of the Olympic Games. Demetrios Vikelas was there to represent Greece.
The First IOC President
At the congress, it was decided that the first modern Olympic Games should be held in Athens, Greece. This was a natural choice because the ancient Olympics began in Greece.
Because the first games were to be in Athens, Demetrios Vikelas was chosen to be the first president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC is the group that organizes the Olympic Games. It was decided that the IOC president should always be from the country hosting the next games.
Vikelas worked very hard to make sure the 1896 Athens Olympics were a success. He helped raise money and organize everything needed for the big event.
The 1896 Athens Olympics
The 1896 Olympic Games were a huge success. Athletes from 14 nations competed in various sports. It was a proud moment for Greece and for everyone who believed in the Olympic spirit.
After the Athens Games, Vikelas stepped down as president. According to the rules at the time, the presidency would pass to a representative of the next host country. So, Pierre de Coubertin became the next IOC president.
Later Life and Legacy
After his time as IOC president, Demetrios Vikelas continued his work as a writer and philanthropist. A philanthropist is someone who gives money and time to help others. He supported education and culture in Greece.
Vikelas passed away in 1908. He is remembered as a key figure in the history of the modern Olympic Games. His efforts helped make the dream of bringing the Olympics back to life a reality.
Images for kids
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A portrait of Vikelas by Nikolaos Xydias Typaldos.
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The International Olympic Committee at the first Olympic Games in Athens. Vikelas is seated in the center
See also
In Spanish: Dimitrios Vikelas para niños
