1996 Olympic Torch Relay Route

1996 Olympic Torch Relay Route

1996 Summer Olympic Games

The Olympic torch relay is one of the most iconic and recognizable events not just in sports history, but in the entire world. Every year the Olympic torch is lit in Olympia, Greece and carried to its destination without being distinguished. This carrying of the torch through all walks of life in the United States is symbolic of the greater message of continuity and peace among all communities. The IOC was initially hesitant to put the games in Atlanta due to the known issues regarding diversity and acceptance in the southern United States. As the torch was being passed from hand to hand among strangers from different backgrounds, races, and genders, a “symbol of peace, friendship, tolerance, and hope” was displayed that was greater than any sport (IOC).

Reagan Shu

Ioc. “The Olympic Torch Relay: ‘a Symbol of Peace, Friendship, Tolerance and Hope.’” International Olympic Committee, IOC, 20 Oct. 2017, www.olympic.org/news/the-olympic-torch-relay-a-symbol-of-peace-friendship-tolerance-and-hope.

Hargrett, Felix. Olympic Torch Relay Information 1996. Coca-Cola, 1996, pp. 1–5, Olympic Torch Relay Information 1996, hmfa.libs.uga.edu/hmfa/view?docId=ead/ms3735-ead.xml;query=olympic%20torch%20relay;brand=default.