The opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics in Paris was a spectacular event with performances by Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, and metal band Gojira, as well as a boat parade along the river Seine despite heavy rains. Looking back at the history of Olympics opening ceremonies, some standout moments include the 1896 Athens Games, featuring a massive choir and orchestra; the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, symbolizing Japan’s rebirth after World War II; the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, showcasing America’s technological prowess with a jetpack stunt; the 1996 Atlanta Games, with Muhammad Ali lighting the Olympic flame despite his Parkinson’s disease; the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where Cathy Freeman symbolized reconciliation for Australia’s Aboriginal people; the 2008 Beijing Olympics, flaunting China’s global power with a drum performance; and the 2012 London Olympics, featuring a comedic opening ceremony with Queen Elizabeth II and James Bond actor Daniel Craig. Each of these ceremonies brought unique elements and iconic moments that became memorable parts of Olympic history. This article, originally published by AFP News, highlights the significance and grandeur of past Olympics opening ceremonies.
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