The 1908 London Olympics Gallery

The IV Olympic Games were originally awarded to Rome but were reallocated to London when the Italian authorities realised, in 1906, that the recent eruption of Mount Vesuvius was going to cause the Italian state serious financial difficulties. London’s formal acceptance came in November of 1906, with a mere 18 months in which to prepare.

Happily, many of British sport’s governing bodies had been in existence for many years, and were very experienced in organising large meetings. A new stadium, later named The White City, was built in west London.

Italy's Dorando Pietri finishing the marathon	The City Toastmaster makes an announcement to the crowd	Queen Alexandra presents Italy's Dorando Pietri with a gold cup
Danish lady gymnast practicing at the White City stadium	The US tug-of-war team	Harry Porter taking part in the high jump
Competitors receiving their medals in 1908	Female archery contestants	Olympic boxing champion Richard Gunn

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