At the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico, Tommie Smith broke the 20-second barrier in the 200-meter sprint, securing gold with a time of 19.83 seconds. This performance established a new world record and concluded an era of dominance for the sprinter, who had already set multiple world marks during his tenure at San Jose State University.
Early Development and Track Dominance
Born in Clarksville, Texas, in 1944, Smith was the seventh of twelve children. He attended Lemoore High School in California, where he excelled in basketball, football, and track. His collegiate career at San Jose State University, under coach Lloyd Winter, saw him set seven individual world records. In 1966, he became the first person to break the 20-second threshold in the 200-meter event, a feat he accomplished both on a straight track and around a turn.
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A member of the Olympic Project for Human Rights, Smith advocated for social reforms, including the reinstatement of Muhammad Ali's boxing title and increased representation for African-American coaches. During the medal ceremony in Mexico, Smith and John Carlos raised their black-gloved fists while shoeless to symbolize poverty. International Olympic Committee president Avery Brundage deemed the act a breach of the Olympic spirit, leading to their expulsion from the Olympic Village.
Professional Transition and Education
Following his track career, Smith entered professional football. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1967, he eventually played for the American Football League's Cincinnati Bengals, spending three seasons on the taxi squad and recording a 41-yard reception during the 1969 season. Academically, Smith completed a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science at San Jose State and earned a master's degree in Social Change from Goddard College.
Fast facts
- Born: 1944, Clarksville
- Olympic Gold Medal: 1968, 200-meter sprint
- Winning Time: 19.83 seconds
- Education: San Jose State University, Goddard College
- NFL Draft: 1967, Los Angeles Rams
- AFL Team: Cincinnati Bengals
- Awards: Dresden Prize, Arthur Ashe Courage Award
Questions readers ask
What caused Tommie Smith to be expelled from the 1968 Olympic Games?
He was expelled for performing a Black Power salute on the medal podium, which the International Olympic Committee viewed as an inappropriate political statement.
Did Tommie Smith play professional football?
Yes, he was a wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals in the American Football League, where he spent three seasons.
