Atlanta:1996

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID TAYLOR/GETTY IMAGES

1996 was a summer that Atlanta had never seen before. One that could make or break the city’s reputation. In the spotlight of the world Atlanta saw an opportunity to grow financially, while shaping the city’s appeal. “Atlanta hosted the Centennial Summer Olympic Games from July 19-August 4, 1996. This was the largest event in the city’s history, and it helped establish Atlanta as the business and sports capital of the Southeast. Atlanta spent millions of dollars in preparation for the Games, including building new sports venues, improving streets and sidewalks, and altering housing patterns. The Centennial Games brought global attention and investment to Atlanta.”^[1] . Andrew Young, activist and former Mayer of Atlanta played a huge role in this victory. Alongside Billy Payne, they pushed the idea that Atlanta could become a major city pushing past poverty and racial tensions. Atlanta had to work hard for this. The bidding process was hard, with tons of powerful cities competing for the 100^thOlympic Games. As you can see from the graph below revenue was all over the place but, global attention through broadcasting was high.