Paris 1900

Pierre de Coubertin was against the idea for Athens to become a permanent host for the Olympics. He proposed and Paris was chosen as capital of the II Games (May 14-October 28). The Games continued for 168 days, which considerably reduced the interest. The competitors were 1,206 from 24 nations. For the first time there were 19 women. France won the most medals - 102 (29 gold). With 4 titles in athletics the hero of the Olympiad was the American Alvin Kraenzlein.