Final answer:
The 4-year period between the ancient Greek athletic games is known as an Olympiad. These events, especially the Olympics, were central in celebrating Greek culture and promoting unity among the city-states. Modern Olympics carry forward the tradition and name, albeit with a wider variety of sports.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 4-year span between athletic games in ancient Greece is called an Olympiad. These games, most notably the Olympics, were held every four years at Olympia and were a significant cultural event, bringing together Greeks from various regions, even as far away as Sicily and the Black Sea. Events were designed to display prowess in skills necessary for war, comprising running, jumping, throwing, and wrestling, with later additions like chariot racing. This period of time was also when the Greeks showcased their unity as Hellenistic society, celebrating their language and culture despite being politically independent city-states, or poleis.
Modern Olympic Games retain the name in honor of their ancient counterpart. Both versions were and are grand sporting events, but traditional Greek events emphasized military skills, while modern games include a wider range of sports. The ancient Olympics also held significant religious importance and were part of a cultural festival that bonded the Greek city-states.