ChronoFive
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Setting the scene
The Beijing Olympics opened August 8, 2008 (8/8/08 at 8:08 pm, eight being lucky in China), showcasing China's rise as a global power. The games cost $40 billion, the most expensive ever at the time. China topped the medal table with 48 golds. The opening ceremony, directed by Zhang Yimou, featured 15,000 performers.
What happened
The Olympics were controversial due to China's human rights record, Tibet protests, and air pollution. The Bird's Nest stadium and Water Cube became architectural icons. Usain Bolt broke world records in the 100m and 200m.
Why it still matters
Beijing 2008 announced China's arrival as a superpower and demonstrated its organizational capacity. The games softened China's image while also highlighting authoritarian control. August 8, 2008, marked China's coming-out party.
Background
Phelps won eight swimming golds.