1904 St. Louis Olympics

Also called: Games of the III Olympiad, St. Louis 1904

The first Olympics held outside Europe, staged alongside the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. The long journey meant most athletes were American. Gold, silver and bronze medals were awarded for the first time.

The Games were held in St. Louis from 1 July to 23 November 1904 together with the exposition marking the centenary of the Louisiana Purchase. Few Europeans made the Atlantic crossing, and most of the roughly 650 athletes were American. Gold, silver and bronze medals for first, second and third place were introduced at these Games. In the marathon, a runner who had ridden part of the course in a car crossed the line first and was disqualified.