WHY DID THE ROMANS CANCEL THE OLYMPICS FOR 1,502 YEARS? | TIME TRAVELS | ABSOLUTE HISTORY

Cinemavixion Review

This episode of Absolute History's 'Time Travels' offers a fascinating mosaic of historical vignettes, masterfully guided by Tony Robinson. The narrative begins with the poignant story of the ancient Olympic Games, tracing their origins in 776 BC and exploring the surprising reasons behind their centuries-long hiatus under the Roman Empire, only to re-emerge centuries later in an unexpected English setting. The episode then shifts gears, delving into the dramatic arrival of U.S. soldiers in Australia during WWII and the ensuing brawl that necessitated a unique diplomatic solution. Further explorations include a courageous female swimmer in 1912 who defied social norms to compete in Sweden, and the 1850s origins of the eight-hour workday, intricately linked to a protracted rivalry. Robinson's engaging presentation brings these diverse historical moments to life, making for an illuminating and thought-provoking journey through time.