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Tommie Smith

From Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Smith in 2007

Tommie C. Smith (born June 6, 1944) is an American former track and field athlete. He won the gold medal in the 200 meter sprint at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. As well as winning the gold medal, he was known for performing a famous Black Power salute with fellow American John Carlos on the medal podium. Smith did this as a protest against racism towards African-Americans.[1] Smith and Carlos were also supported by Australian silver medalist Peter Norman.[2]

Smith was born in Clarksville, Texas. His autobiography, Silent Gesture, was published in 2007.

References

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  1. Chulani, Nikhita (October 17, 2018). "Black Power salute: 50 years on how much has changed? – video explainer". The Guardian. Retrieved April 19, 2019.
  2. Webster, Andrew (October 20, 2018). "Finally, the real story about Peter Norman and the black power salute". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved April 19, 2019.

Other websites

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