No one can really pinpoint the origin of weightlifting. Its history can be traced back to the beginning of recorded history, where mankind's fascination with physical strength can be found among ancient writings.
Weightlifting was among the first competitive sports to forge ahead as the 1800s saw athletics began a push toward organization during that time. However, the U.S. was a little slower to catch on.
While America was still getting acquainted with the sport, the first European Championships were held across the pond in 1896. Weightlifting was included in the first Modern Olympics in 1896 as an official sport, but was left out of the 1900 Games.
Weightlifting returned to the Olympic stage in 1904, and became a regular event in 1920. Three lifts were standard then, the press, clean-and-jerk and the snatch. Over the years, weigh classes were added and the press was taken out of Olympic competition.
Women will compete in weightlifting at the Olympics for the first time at the 2000 Sydney Games.