This exhibit highlights the inter-allied games held in 1919. This was an Olympics type competition that was created to strengthen relationship between soldiers of the Allied Nations after the end of World War I. I had never heard of these Allied Games, and I’m sure it proves as intriguing to sports fans as those of us interested in history.
The fact that these games were held after 52 months of devastating war was remarkable. It was also a testament to the sportsmanship and hope for lasting peace. These games were held in a specially-constructed stadium in the Paris suburb of Jonville-le-Pont and nearly 1,500 athletes, who all served in the Great War, marched into a stadium instead of to the trenches.
So here's a little “Did you Know” to increase your World War I knowledge.
Did you know the expert Saudi Arabian Cavalry gave an exhibition of sword dancing and camel riding at the Inter-Allied Games? That would have been great fun to see!
Did you know Americans were the best grenade throwers in the Great War? Why? Baseball! The “baseball” throw which Americans used vs. the European “stiff-arm” method allowed better distance.
Did you know lime, like the type originally used to mark the lines on baseball fields, was used to filter air in gas masks during the Great War?
Do you recognize any of these names? They are some of the World War I soldier/athletes who participated were: Solomon Butler (born in Hutchinson, KS) track and field; Charles Paddock, track and field—the term “world’s Fastest Human” was coined when Paddock set five world’s records in 1921; Max Friedman, basketball; Ty Cobb, baseball; Norman Ross, swimming. So did any of those names sound familiar?? If so, do tell—only one jumped out at me.
May you find joy as you learn from history. ~Judy
P.S. Happy Valentine's Day to each of our faithful readers.
This is a great post Judy. I wasn't really aware about the WW1 Athletes, but Pete had heard of the Games. How marvellous that they all united for the games..such a shame the good will didn't continue for the subsequent wars!
ReplyDeleteThe Museum sounds wonderful and I am very much looking forward to visiting and hearing the history behind it all.:)
Max Friedman is the name that jumps out at me, not because of his sporting prowess, but he was also a song writer and wrote songs during WW1As usual, I have learned something new, thanks to your post!
BTW! When your post comes out next week, we will be just about to land in LA all being well!LOL!
That's fascinating, Judy! I had never heard of the Allied Games before. What a wonderful way to strengthen those ties!
ReplyDeleteAnd Ty Cobb was the only name that jumped out at me from the list. : )
Wow, Miss Judy! Another fascinating history lesson. If I've learned about those Allied games, I sure don't remember them. Of those names you listed, I recognized Ty Cobb and I'm thinking I have actually heard of Paddock (of course I could just be thinking of Paddington Bear). Happy Valentine's Day to you too!! Hugs, Patti Jo
ReplyDeleteHi Rosie,
ReplyDeleteI hadn't heard of the Allied Games so thought it was interesting, too. Ty Cobb was the only name that jumped out at me. And I hope the state of California is prepared for your arrival next week! I'm sure the flags will be flying. :)
Hi Carol,
I thought it was a unique idea to have the games, too. It was a fascinating exhibit--especially some of the pictures I didn't show. :)
Hi Patti Jo,
Paddington Bear, huh? One of my favorites, too. Looks like the Americans have a good connection with Ty Cobb and Paddington. :)