John Carlos was born on May 6, 1945, in New York City, NY. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for running and quickly made a name for himself in the world of track and field. He attended Oceanside High School, where he set numerous records and caught the attention of college recruiters.
Carlos earned a track scholarship to attend East Texas State University, where he continued to excel in the sport. He quickly became known as one of the top sprinters in the country and attracted the attention of Olympic scouts.
In 1968, John Carlos competed in the Olympic Games in Mexico City. He shocked the world by winning the bronze medal in the 200m race, solidifying his status as one of the greatest sprinters of his time. However, it was not his athletic prowess that would cement his legacy, but rather his bold and courageous actions on the podium.
During the medal ceremony, Carlos and his teammate Tommie Smith raised their fists in the iconic Black Power salute, a powerful and symbolic gesture of protest against racial inequality and injustice. The image of Carlos and Smith with their fists in the air became one of the most iconic moments in Olympic history, sparking controversy and debate around the world.
Despite facing backlash and criticism for their protest, Carlos and Smith became symbols of resistance and activism in the fight for civil rights. In 2003, Carlos was inducted into the USA Track & Field Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the sport.
Off the track, John Carlos was a devoted husband and father. He fathered a daughter with his second wife, Kim, and maintained a close-knit family throughout his life. Despite the challenges he faced, both on and off the track, Carlos remained dedicated to his principles and continued to be a vocal advocate for social justice.
After his athletic career, John Carlos continued to be involved in activism and advocacy work. He used his platform to speak out against racial inequality, police brutality, and other social issues, using his own experiences as a catalyst for change.