answersLogoWhite

0

Jesse Owens did not raise his fist at the Olympics .... it wasTommie Smith and John Carlos. Teammates at San Jose State University, Smith and Carlos were stirred by the suggestion of a young sociologist friend Harry Edwards, who asked them and all the other black American athletes to join together and boycott the games. The protest, Edwards hoped, would bring attention to the fact that America's Civil Rights Movement had not gone far enough to eliminate the injustices black Americans were facing. Edwards' group, the Olympic Project for Human Rights (OPHR), gained support from several world-class athletes and civil rights leaders but the all-out boycott never materialized.

Still impassioned by Edwards' words, Smith and Carlos secretly planned a nonviolent protest in the manner of Martin Luther King, Jr. In the 200-meter race, Smith won the gold medal and Carlos the bronze. As the American flag rose and the Star-Spangled Banner played, the two closed their eyes, bowed their heads, and began their protest.

Smith later told the media that he raised his right, black-glove-covered fist in the air to represent black power in America while Carlos' left, black-covered fist represented unity in black America. Together they formed an arch of unity and power. The black scarf around Smith's neck stood for black pride and their black socks (and no shoes) represented black poverty in racist America.

Facts by John Gettings

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

What else can I help you with?

Trending Questions
What are the best features to consider when choosing 700x35 tires for a bicycle? What are the main differences between MTB shoes and road shoes, and how do these differences impact performance and comfort for cyclists? Do you have to place in all round to be eligible to compete on individual events? What are the main differences between a mechanical brake and a hydraulic brake system? How much does Phil Mickelson earn per year? What are the benefits of rear bike suspension for off-road cycling? How many meters in a middle school track and field for one lap? What are the different types of road bike handlebars available in the market and how do they impact the overall performance and comfort of the rider? What are Shark Wheels and how do they differ from traditional skateboard wheels? First black tennis player? How many woman are allowed on Davis cup tennis team? Golf GPS is most useful in what situations? If the sports shop sold 1.500 dozen golf balls last week .how many individual golf balls Didi the shop sell? Is plastic bag a mixture? What are the main differences between a road bike and a fixie, and which one would be more suitable for my cycling needs? What are the advantages of a bike with 24 inch wheels compared to other wheel sizes? Can you change a shaft from graphite to steel? What are the recommended tire specifications for a road bike, specifically looking for 700c x 25 tires? What features should I look for when choosing a road bike computer? What is the recommended size for a 29-inch bike based on my height and riding preferences?