What happened at the Mexico Olympic Games in 1968?
**A .**The two men Tommie Smith and John Carlos (African-Americans) won gold and bronze medals respectively, in the 200 metre race. At the time of the medal ceremony, as the American national anthem was played, the two closed their eyes, bowed their heads and began their protest. They received their medals wearing blacksocks and no shoes to represent Black poverty. '
The black-gloved and raised clenched fists were meant to symbolise Black power. The actions of the two men were met with outrage and they were suspended from their ’ national team and banned from the Olympics Village. It was thought that such an act brought political statements with it to the Olympic Games.
The silver medallist Australian player Peter Norman wore a human rights badge during the ceremony to show his support.