Raised his fist in a Black Power salute during the 1968 Olympics, sparking a powerful symbol of protest against racial inequality.
John Carlos, the American former track and field athlete and professional football player, is famously known for his bold statement on the podium at the 1968 Summer Olympics, where he stood alongside Tommie Smith, raising his fist in the iconic Black Power salute.
This powerful gesture, which defiantly challenged the status quo and brought attention to the civil rights movement, cemented Carlos' place in history as a symbol of resistance and activism.
Born on June 5, 1945, in the Bronx, New York, Carlos was raised in Harlem by his mother, Violis, who was of Black Cuban descent, and his father, Earl V. Carlos Sr., from South Carolina.
Carlos' athletic prowess was evident from a young age, and he went on to attend East Texas State University (now Texas A&M University-Commerce) and later San Jose State University, where he was trained by renowned coach Lloyd Bud Winter.
The 1968 Olympic Trials, held at Echo Summit trailhead in California, saw Carlos win the 200-meter dash, earning him a spot at the Mexico City Olympics.
At the Olympics, Carlos and Tommie Smith took the podium, taking a stand against racism and oppression by raising their fists in the Black Power salute, an act that sparked outrage and admiration worldwide.
The consequences of this bold move were severe: Carlos and Smith were stripped of their medals and banned from the Olympic Village.
After the Olympics, Carlos briefly played professional football in the Canadian Football League, but an injury cut his career short.
He later became involved with the United States Olympic Committee and helped organize the 1984 Summer Olympics.
Carlos has also made a lasting impact as a track coach at Palm Springs High School, inspiring generations of young athletes.
John Carlos' courage and conviction have made him a symbol of resistance and activism, inspiring generations to take a stand against injustice and fight for their rights.
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