The 2012 Olympics are ramping up in England, and so are the visualizations of all the data related to the games. The Ancient Olympic Games started in 776 BC in ancient Greece. After being abandoned in 394 AD, they were reincarnated in the modern form we know in 1894. The tradition continues today, and hopefully will continue for as long as humanity exists. They are a wonderful celebration of human physical capability and achievement, with new records set without fail. In anticipation of this year’s games, here’s a list of 14 infographics about the Olympics and their impact on this year’s host city, London.
1. Since their reintroduction in 1894, the Olympics have gone through an evolution. You can see the evolution for the Summer version of the games in this graphic.
2. Part of that evolution has been a changing series of events. Here’s 50 Olympic Events You Won’t See At London 2012.
3. Over that period of time, the technology involved has also changed a lot. The Optimization of the Olympic Games covers these technological changes.
4. In the history of the modern games, London is a Three Time Olympic City.
The impact of the games on London will be huge. The next few graphics cover some of that impact.
5. The Economic Impact of the 2012 London Olympics touches on the financial changes the games will bring to the city.
6. The Thomas Cook 2012 Business Survey looks at what expectations some of the local businesses have for the games.
7. For some general facts about the games, London Summer Olympic Games By The Numbers gives a good rundown.
8. London 2012 Olympics shows what some of the citizens of the city think about the coming games.
9. Despite the 3D pie chart, this infographic makes a good point: there’s a shortage of chefs caused by the games. False Start: UK Chef Shortage addresses some of the problems related to that shortage.
10. There are a lot of general numbers around the games, and London 2012 Olympics gives a great overview.
11. Ticket Prices are also a hot topic for attendees, and the ‘Pay your age’ model seems to be a good idea for kids under 16.
12. Through all the preparations, Great Britain hasn’t forgotten to be supportive of their home team. Our Greatest Team reminds Brits to stay supportive through the games.
13. As the results come in, the Olympic Schedule and Results will do a great job of showing the outcome of each event.
14. If you’re like us and itching for the competition to begin, the Olympic Torch Relay Route might help ease your cravings.
The Olympic Games are a fantastic celebration of what we, humans, can do. They provide us with heroes to admire and goals to aspire to. Despite being a celebration of mostly individual achievement, they take an entire society to organize. This is the true beauty of the games.