Iran Press/ Iran news: Iran_then known as Persia was represented by fencer Freydun Malkom, who competed in the fencing events, marking the nation’s first entry into the global sporting arena.
The 1900 Paris Olympics were notable for being the second edition of the modern Olympic Games and for introducing several new sports and female athletes.
Malkom’s participation was a significant step for Iranian sports on the world stage, although he did not win a medal.
Freydoun Malkom (variably spelled Malkom) was the fourth child and first son of Mirza Malkom Khan (1834-1908). His father was a diplomat, newspaper editor, and political reformer during the Persian Qajar dynasty. He headed the first Persian embassy in the United States during the presidency of James Buchanan. At the time that Freydoun was born, his father was serving in London as minister plenipotentiary (since 1873) and later as ambassador. Freydoun and his father used the spelling of “Malcolm” for their surname in Europe.
Freydoun graduated from Eton and attended the French military academy, St. Cyr. Freydoun was appointed special adjutant at the Persian Embassy in Paris and later in Rome. During this time, he competed in the épée event of the 1900 Paris Olympics but was eliminated in the second round. Based on his and his father’s long diplomatic service, they were awarded the title of “prince” even though not related to the shah.
India also made its debut in 1900, showcasing the increasing involvement of Asian countries in the Games. The Indian team included athletes in several events, marking the beginning of India's journey in the Olympics.
Additionally, it is worth noting that Norman Pritchard, an athlete representing India, won two silver medals at the 1900 Summer Olympics, marking the first Olympic medals for the country.
A total of 28 countries participated in the 1900 Paris Olympics, reflecting the broadening scope of the Games. The participating nations were:1. Argentina2. Australia 3. Austria 4. Belgium 5. Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic) 6. Canada 7. Cuba 8. Denmark 9. France 10. Germany 11. Great Britain & Ireland 12. Greece 13. Haiti 14. Hungary 15. India 16. Iran (then Persia) 17. Italy 18. Luxembourg 19. Mexico 20. The Netherlands 21. Norway 22. Peru 23. Romania 24. Russia 25. Spain 26. Sweden 27. Switzerland 28. U.S.A.
The 1900 Paris Games were a significant expansion of the Olympics, setting the stage for a more inclusive and diverse range of nations and athletes in future competitions.
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