Olympic history – origin of the Winter Games The Winter Olympic Games, featuring snow and ice sports, were first held in which year as a separate multi-sport event?

Introduction / Context:
The Olympic movement grew to include a separate winter edition for snow and ice sports. Knowing the inception year is a core fact for sports history and competitive exam preparation.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks the first year of a distinct Winter Olympics.
• Earlier Olympic programs included some winter sports exhibitions, but not a dedicated Winter Games.
• We focus on the official IOC-recognized starting year.

Concept / Approach:
Identify the year when the first official Winter Olympics were staged under the IOC, hosted in the Alps as a counterpart to the Summer Games, setting traditions that continue every four years (barring interruptions).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
IOC historical timelines and Olympic databases confirm Chamonix 1924 as the inaugural Winter Olympic Games.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 1912: Stockholm (Summer) with no separate Winter Games.
• 1920: Summer Games year; not the first Winter Olympics.
• 1916: Games canceled due to World War I.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing early figure skating or ice hockey events in Summer Olympiads with a distinct Winter Games. The dedicated winter edition begins in 1924.

Final Answer:
1924