An introduction to the Olympic Games for children, looking both at the original Olympic Games held over 2,000 years ago and the international event they have become today thanks to the ideas of an innovative 19th century doctor. William Brookes was unusual for his time: he was convinced that regular exercise would benefit his patients' health. In order to encourage people to exercise, he introduced an annual competition based on the ancient Olympic Games. In no time, his ideas were being copied around the world, leading to the modern-day Olympic Games.