The life of a gladiator could be exhausting unless you are the best and never lose. Gladiators fought in events known as gladiatorial games. The first gladiatorial games were recorded in 310 BC The first gladiatorial games were not held in the huge coliseums we see today. Instead they were most likely believed to entertain a powerful person or ruler. Gladiatorial combat originated as a religious event to honor the dead, the victory of an important battle, a sacrifice to the gods, or to honor the death of someone in a high position. The first Roman gladiatorial games were held in 246 BC in honor of Marcus and Decimus Brutus. ("Life of a Gladiator") These games began an era of gladiatorial events that would last nearly a century to come. Just like athletes today, gladiators competed with each other to decide the winner and it is a form of entertainment for spectators. But gladiators competed very differently than today's professional athletes. Gladiators were forced to fight for the entertainment of others and were considered slaves (“The Roman Gladiator”). Gladiators didn't just fight for friendly sport, they had to fight to the death. This made the gladiatorial games so exciting for the spectators. People loved watching others fight and the blood they would see as gladiators fought. It may sound horrible in today's society, but back then it was the most important form of entertainment. Unlike today's athletes and artists, gladiators were slaves and told what to do against their will. Most gladiators were slaves, criminals and prisoners of war. Gladiator games were mostly organized by the Roman Republic and forced enemies to fight for their lives in... middle of paper...... kings. Tourism is the most profitable industry in Europe and gladiators attract the attention of tourists and bring them to Europe (“The Roman Gladiator”). Some companies hold re-enactments to give tourists a taste of what it was like to watch gladiators compete. There are several museums dedicated to the history of gladiators and how they influence the modern world today. Gladiators lived grueling lives and were known for their ability to fight in battle. Gladiators were the ancient idolized pop stars we see today. Life as a gladiator was hard, but if a gladiator was successful in the arena he could live a peaceful life as a free man. Works Cited "Gladiators". Educational technology clearinghouse. Np, nd Web. April 25, 2014. “Life of a Gladiator.” Life of a gladiator. Np, nd Web. 06 March 2014."The Roman Gladiator." The Roman Gladiator. Np, nd Web. March 13. 2014.