Dan Snow's History Hit Jesse Owens
Sep 15, 2024
David Lee Morgan Jr., an author and historian, dives into the incredible legacy of Jesse Owens, the iconic athlete who shattered records at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. They discuss the significance of Owens' friendship with German long jumper Luz Long as an act of defiance against Nazi ideology. Morgan sheds light on the stark contrast between Owens' international acclaim and the racial prejudice he faced upon returning to America. The conversation emphasizes the lasting impact of Owens' struggles and triumphs on sports and civil rights.
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Jesse Owens' Early Life Anecdote
- Jesse Owens was born James Cleveland Owens and got the nickname Jesse due to a teacher's misunderstanding.
- His mother courageously cut out a tumor from his chest when he was five to save his life.
Segregation in the North
- Despite being in Ohio, Owens faced segregation: he couldn't live on campus or eat with white teammates.
- This reveals racial barriers existed even in Northern states like Ohio during that era.
Track's Meritocracy for Owens
- Track and field allowed Owens to control his own outcomes, unlike team sports with gatekeepers.
- His performance was undeniable because "the stopwatch doesn't lie."