Unseen Passage for Class 6 - Passage 17

The Ancient Olympics, held in Olympia, Greece, were a significant cultural and sporting event in classical antiquity. These games were dedicated to the Greek god Zeus and were first recorded in 776 BCE. The Ancient Olympics were held every four years and attracted athletes from various city-states, promoting unity among the Greeks.

Competitions included athletics, combat sports, and chariot racing. Athletes, all male and free-born, competed for the honor of their city-states. Winners were crowned with olive wreaths, and their achievements were celebrated in poems and sculptures. The Olympic Truce, a cessation of hostilities during the games, allowed safe travel for participants and spectators.

The Ancient Olympics continued for over a millennium until Emperor Theodosius I banned them in 393 CE as part of the wider prohibition of pagan traditions. Despite their end, the Ancient Olympics left an enduring legacy, influencing the modern Olympic Games, which were revived in 1896 in Athens.

J.K. Rowling, born on July 31, 1965, is a British author best known for her fantasy book series, "Harry Potter." Growing up, Rowling had a keen interest in storytelling and literature. The idea for the Harry Potter series came to her during a train journey from Manchester to London in 1990.

The first book, "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" (released as "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" in the U.S.), was published in 1997. The series gained immense popularity, following the journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, and his friends as they attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The success of the books led to a film series, merchandise, theme parks, and a dedicated fan base known as "Potterheads." J.K. Rowling's impact extends beyond literature, as she is involved in various philanthropic activities and has written novels under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.