Tommie Smith and John Carlos' Black Power Salute in 1968

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Tommie Smith and John Carlos' Black Power Salute at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City was a pivotal moment in history. During the medal ceremony for the 200-meter dash, Smith and Carlos raised black-gloved fists while the U.S. national anthem played. This gesture was part of a broader protest against racial injustice and discrimination in the United States. Smith won gold, Carlos took bronze, and Australian Peter Norman won silver. Norman showed solidarity by wearing an Olympic Project for Human Rights badge. The protest was influenced by the Olympic Project for Human Rights, founded by sociologist Harry Edwards. Smith and Carlos faced severe backlash, including suspension from the U.S. team and death threats. Despite this, their act remains a powerful symbol of resistance against systemic racism. It highlighted issues like black poverty, lack of access to education, and the treatment of Muhammad Ali. The event's impact continues to resonate, with the IOC still grappling with similar protests today. Smith and Carlos's courage in using the Olympic podium to make a political statement has become an enduring image of social activism.