1980 Moscow Olympics

The 1980 Moscow Olympics were notable for the significant boycott led by the United States in response to the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. More than 60 countries, including prominent nations like the UK and Canada, chose not to participate. Despite the boycott, the Games proceeded and featured about 5,000 athletes from 80 countries. The event highlighted the Cold War tensions, as the Soviet Union sought to showcase its achievements. Athletes from the boycotting nations competed in alternative events, emphasizing political divides while still celebrating athletic excellence on a global stage.