The Olympics: The Games Begin

The Olympics always present a surpassing spectacle, and Mexico City last week greeted the greatest gathering of athletes in history; 7,226 competitors from 119 nations. In Olympic Stadium, to the boom of cannon salutes and the blare of bands, the teams marched in review before Mexico's President Gustavo Diaz Ordaz and 80,000 cheering spectators. As always, the parade was led by the Greek team and wound up by the host nation. The formation was familiar, but this year its colors were uncommonly bright. The Mexicans were dazzling in white. There were green-gowned...