Spyridon Louis was a Greek runner born on January 12, 1873, in the village of Marousi, near Athens. He is best known for winning the first modern Olympic marathon at the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens, which was a significant event in the revival of the Olympic Games. Louis completed the marathon in a time of 2 hours, 58 minutes, and 50 seconds, becoming a national hero in Greece. His victory not only showcased his athletic talent but also symbolized the spirit of the modern Olympic movement, which aimed to promote international competition and sportsmanship.