The image is iconic, and even casual Olympic fans are familiar with the significance. On this date in 1968, at the Mexico City Olympics, Tommie Smith and John Carlos lifted their fisted and gloved arms while on the podium for the 20 meters ceremony. They certainly knew what they were doing; after discussion of a Games boycott fizzled, and amidst social and political turmoil on civil rights inequities back in the States, the two Americans, who won the gold and bronze medals, respectively, had discussed how to deliver a moment of attention for the plight of Black Americans. For the stuffed shirts amongst the larger public and the IOC, the action was intolerable as a crass disrespecting of the "non-political" competition. That seems a bit quaint today, no? While Smith and Carlos went on to somewhat eventual respected legendary status in the U.S., it's interesting to consider the other guy on the podium for a quick look. Who was he?
He was Peter Norman, who finished second and with the silver medal in the 200. He was no real surprise once the rounds got underway; he even broke the world record in the heats. Before the ceremony, Smith and Carlos told him their plan, and he agreed to wear a Olympic Project for Human Rights badge in support. He even suggested the one-handed gloves. For his tacit participation, he earned, in kind words, a cold shoulder from the Australian public and worse from team officials. Despite maintaining world class talent, he was left off the team four years later and essentially a forgotten man, dying with little fanfare in 2006. Although he is remembered in an indirect manner. Today, his spot on the commemorative statue to Carlos and Smith on the San Jose State campus is empty, where fans and passersby can stand in his place as fellow supporters of the moment.
He was Peter Norman, who finished second and with the silver medal in the 200. He was no real surprise once the rounds got underway; he even broke the world record in the heats. Before the ceremony, Smith and Carlos told him their plan, and he agreed to wear a Olympic Project for Human Rights badge in support. He even suggested the one-handed gloves. For his tacit participation, he earned, in kind words, a cold shoulder from the Australian public and worse from team officials. Despite maintaining world class talent, he was left off the team four years later and essentially a forgotten man, dying with little fanfare in 2006. Although he is remembered in an indirect manner. Today, his spot on the commemorative statue to Carlos and Smith on the San Jose State campus is empty, where fans and passersby can stand in his place as fellow supporters of the moment.
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