The 1908 London Olympic Games, the IV Olympiad, were initially awarded to Rome, but were relocated to London due to financial difficulties and the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Held from April 27th to October 31st, they marked a significant step forward in organization and established several lasting Olympic traditions. The Games were hosted alongside the Franco-British Exhibition, providing a more cohesive and prominent platform than the previous Paris Games. Approximately 2,008 athletes, including 37 women, from 22 nations participated.

A purpose-built White City Stadium, with a track, swimming pool, and wrestling arena, served as the main venue, a first for the modern Olympics. The opening ceremony saw athletes marching into the stadium by nation for the first time, although without a standardized flag-bearing protocol. The length of the marathon was standardized at 26 miles and 385 yards (42.195 kilometers), based on the distance from Windsor Castle to the stadium, a length that has remained ever since.

The Games were not without controversy. Disputes arose over judging in wrestling and boxing, and the American team protested the British flag being flown alone during their entrance, leading to the now-standard practice of displaying all participating nations' flags. The marathon also had its dramatic moment when Italian Dorando Pietri collapsed just before the finish line, being helped across by officials, which led to his disqualification and sparked widespread sympathy.

On the sporting front, Great Britain dominated the medal tally, fueled by strong performances in boxing, cycling, and rowing. American athletes excelled in track and field events, including Mel Sheppard, who won gold in the 800m, 1500m, and medley relay. Swedish figure skater Ulrich Salchow won his only Olympic gold medal, and fencing made its Olympic debut as a fully recognized sport with individual and team events.

The 1908 London Olympics were considered a considerable improvement in terms of organization and infrastructure compared to previous Games. They introduced enduring traditions like the standardized marathon distance and the national team parade. Despite the controversies, the London Games helped solidify the Olympic movement's growing international appeal and laid a stronger foundation for future Olympiads, demonstrating the potential for a large-scale, well-organized international sporting event.