The Opening of the 1936 Berlin Olympics

World War II History – Olympics Audio Feature Podcast: The Opening of the 1936 Berlin Olympics Today in honor of the Opening of the Olympic games in Beijing (08/08/08), we bring you a radio broadcast from the 1936 Berlin Olympics, just before WW II. 72 years ago RRG sends out a speech by Adolph Hitler opening the Olympic Games in Berlin. (Adolf Hitler – Eroffnungsfeierlichkeiten Im Olympiastadion Berlin) 1936 Olympic History: Jesse Owens won four gold medals in the sprint and long jump events. His German competitor Lutz Long offered Owens advice after he almost failed qualifying in the long jump and was posthumously awarded the Pierre de Coubertin medal for sportsmanship. "The sportive, knightly battle awakens the best human characteristics. It doesn't separate, but unites the combatants in understanding and respect. It also helps to connect the countries in the spirit of peace. That's why the Olympic Flame should never die." – Adolf Hitler, commenting on the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games