Mexico Olympics, 1968

What happened at the 1968 Mexico Olympics?

At the 1968 Mexico Olympics, American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos gave the Black Power salute as they received their gold and bronze medals for the men's 200m race.

What happened after the 1968 Mexico Olympics?

There were 2 main results of their actions:

• ❖ There was booing from the crowds and both men were suspended from the US Olympic squad.
• ❖ As well as being criticised by the media and politicians, they each received death threats. However, many young black people were inspired to join the Black Power movement as a result of their actions.