What was the first Paralympic Games held in the United States?

The first Paralympic Games held in the United States took place in New York City in 1984. This event was significant because it marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Paralympic movement, showcasing the talents and capabilities of athletes with disabilities on a large international stage. The 1984 New York Games were particularly notable as they coincided with the 1984 Summer Olympics and included a considerable number of athletes from various countries, helping to raise awareness and promote the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in sports. This event helped to pave the way for future Paralympics and was essential in furthering the integration of disabled athletes globally.

Other options refer to events that either occurred later or were not the first instance of the Paralympics being hosted in the U.S. Thus, while the 1996 Atlanta games and the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Games were key events in the history of the Paralympics, they occurred after the groundbreaking 1984 event. San Francisco did not host the Paralympic Games, making the New York City location the correct and historically significant answer.