Tommie Smith and John Carlos competed in the 200-meter sprint at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, Smith won the gold medal and John Carlos bronze. During the medal presentation, both athletes raised their black-gloved fists in peaceful protest during the playing of the U.S. national anthem. They were suspended from the U.S. Olympic team and forced out of the Olympic Village because of their protest.
Resources
- Fists of Freedom: An Olympic Story Not Taught in School - Dave Zirin, Zinn Educaiton Project
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