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東京2020年オリンピックパラリンピック (Tokyo 2020-nen Orinpikku Pararinpikku)

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics were a significant international sporting event held in Tokyo, Japan, from July 23 to September 5, 2021, after being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This event showcased the resilience of athletes and highlighted themes of diversity, inclusion, and global unity, making a profound impact on personal and public identities in Japan and worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics were initially scheduled for 2020 but were postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the first time in history that the Games were postponed.
  2. The event emphasized safety measures against COVID-19, including limited spectators and strict health protocols to ensure the safety of athletes and attendees.
  3. The Games featured a record number of female athletes participating, highlighting the importance of gender equality in sports.
  4. Tokyo 2020 introduced new sports such as skateboarding, surfing, and sport climbing, reflecting evolving interests and modern trends in athletics.
  5. The motto for the Tokyo 2020 Games was 'United by Emotion,' symbolizing the power of sports to connect people across different cultures and backgrounds.

Review Questions

  • How did the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics reflect changes in societal attitudes towards diversity and inclusion?
    • The Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics highlighted significant shifts in societal attitudes towards diversity and inclusion through various initiatives. The event saw a record participation of female athletes, promoting gender equality in sports. Additionally, the Paralympics showcased athletes with disabilities on a global platform, emphasizing their achievements and breaking stereotypes. Overall, the Games served as a powerful reminder that sports can unite diverse communities and foster a more inclusive society.
  • Analyze how the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics affected athletes' preparation and public perception of the event.
    • The postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics significantly impacted athletes' preparation by forcing them to adapt training regimens amidst uncertainty. Many athletes faced mental and physical challenges as they had to maintain peak performance for an additional year. Public perception also shifted; while there was initial disappointment over the delay, it gradually transformed into appreciation for the resilience displayed by athletes. The experience underscored themes of perseverance in facing global crises.
  • Evaluate the long-term implications of hosting the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics on Japan's national identity and global image.
    • Hosting the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics is likely to have lasting implications on Japan's national identity and global image. The event positioned Japan as a resilient nation capable of overcoming challenges posed by the pandemic, thereby enhancing its reputation on the world stage. Additionally, it fostered national pride among Japanese citizens as they showcased their culture through ceremonies and traditions. Long-term, this exposure may lead to increased tourism and international collaboration in various sectors while strengthening Japan's commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

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