History
Weightlifting was on the program at the first modern Olympics in 1896 with two events: The one-hand lift and the two-hand lift. There were similar events in 1904 and 1906.
Weight categories were established in 1920, with medal standings based on the aggregate of multiple types of lifts.
There were three lifts in 1920: The one-hand snatch and the one-hand and two-hand clean and jerk. In 1924, there were five: The one- and two-hand snatch, one- and two-hand clean and jerk, and the two-hand press
From 1928 through 1972, the three standard lifts were the press, the snatch, and the clean and jerk. Since 1976, there have been only two lifts, the snatch and the clean and jerk.
Each lifter is given three attempts at each type of lift. If there is a tie, it's decided in favor of the lifter with the lower body weight.
Weight limits have changed several times over the years. Those shown are for the 2000 Olympics.