Team USA Olympic uniform singlet worn by Tommie Smith

Wilson Sporting Goods Co., American, founded 1914 · 1968

The raised fists of John Carlos and Tommie Smith at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics remains one of the most enduring symbols of resistance in American history. On October 16, 1968, Tommie Smith won gold in the 200-meter sprint while wearing this Team USA uniform. On the podium, Australian silver medalist Peter Norman wore a badge for the Olympic Project for Human Rights in support of Smith and bronze medal winner John Carlos as they staged one of the most iconic and important protests against racial discrimination. Shoeless, each with a black glove on one hand, and their Olympic medals around their neck, Smith and Carlos faced the American flag and raised their gloved fists in a salute symbolizing power and unity. Their black socks stressed the poverty plaguing Black America, and their bowed heads represented their prayers for Black Americans. The silent protest was an expression of solidarity with oppressed peoples around the globe.