Historical Figure
Pierre de Coubertin
1863–1937
French educator and historian (1863–1937)
Talk to Pierre de Coubertin
Have a conversation with this historical figure through AI
Biography
Charles Pierre de Frédy, Baron de Coubertin, also known as Pierre de Coubertin and Baron de Coubertin, was a French educator and historian, co-founder of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and its second president. He is known as the father of the modern Olympic Games. He was particularly active in promoting the introduction of sport in French schools.
In Their Own Words (5)
A better world could be brought about only by better individuals.
As quoted in "Attaining the Ideals", in 'Awake!' magazine (8 September 2000) , 2000
The important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win, but to take part; the important thing in Life is not triumph, but the struggle; the essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well. To spread these principles is to build up a strong and more valiant and, above all, more scrupulous and more generous humanity.
As quoted in The Olympian (1984) by Peter L. Dixon, p. 210 , 1984
I therefore think that I was right in trying from the outset of the Olympic revival to rekindle a religious awareness.
Stated in the year before he died, as quoted in "The Olympics, Sports and Religion — Is There a Conflict?", in Awake! magazine (8 September 2000) , 2000
Winning medals wasn’t the point of the Olympics. It’s the participating that counts.
As quoted in "The Olympics — Where Are They Headed?", in 'Awake!' magazine (8 February 1977) , 1977
In the name of all the competitors I promise that we shall take part in these Olympic Games, respecting and abiding by the rules which govern them, in the true spirit of sportsmanship, for the glory of sport and the honour of our teams.
The Olympic Idea : Discourses and Essays (1970) by Carl Diem, p. 7 , 1970
Timeline
The story of Pierre de Coubertin, told in moments.
Born into Parisian aristocracy. His full name was Charles Pierre de Fredy, Baron de Coubertin. His family expected him to enter the military or the church. He chose neither.
Visited England and became obsessed with the role of sports in British education. Thomas Arnold's Rugby School model convinced him that athletics built character.
Organized a congress at the Sorbonne that voted to revive the Olympic Games. Seventy-nine delegates from 12 countries attended. Coubertin wrote the Olympic Charter.
The first modern Olympic Games opened in Athens. Fourteen countries sent 241 athletes. All were men. Coubertin opposed women competing and kept them out until 1900.
Died of a heart attack in Geneva at 74. His heart was buried separately at Olympia, Greece. He'd served as IOC president for 29 years but died nearly broke.
More from the Victorian Era
Explore what happened on the days that shaped Pierre de Coubertin's life. Today In History connects historical figures with the events, births, and deaths that defined their era. Browse all historical figures or explore today's events.