How it all started. Coubertin’s journey of inspiration to Olympism

This paper follows Baron Pierre de Coubertin’s pathway in shaping the discourse of Olympism. By examining the founder’s correspondence, publications and personal records, we seek to understand the sources of inspiration, motives and relationships that led him into the revival of the modern Olympic Games. In particular we identify the implications of Coubertin’s speech and actions for the ways in which Olympism and Olympic sport were conceptualised in late nineteenth century Europe.