1968 Mexico City Olympics: A Games of Protest and Record-Breaking Feats

The 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games, officially known as the Games of the XIX Olympiad, took place from October 12th to 27th, 1968, in Mexico City. This 16th modern Olympic Games was marked by both incredible athletic achievements and significant political demonstrations, making it one of the most memorable and controversial Olympics in history.

The shadow of political unrest loomed large over the ’68 Mexico Olympics. Just ten days prior to the opening ceremony, a tragic event unfolded in the Plaza of Three Cultures. Student protestors, advocating for social programs over Olympic spending, were met with brutal force by the Mexican army. The ensuing massacre resulted in the deaths of over 200 protesters and injuries to more than a thousand, casting a pall over the Games and highlighting the social tensions within Mexico.

Tommie Smith and John Carlos Black Power Salute at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics

The political atmosphere permeated the Games themselves. During the medal ceremony for the men’s 200-meter race, American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos, gold and bronze medal winners respectively, staged a silent yet powerful protest against racial injustice in the United States. As the American national anthem played, both men stood shoeless in black socks, heads bowed, and raised a single black-gloved fist in a Black Power salute. This iconic image became a symbol of the 1968 Olympics and the broader fight for civil rights. While the athletes intended their gesture as a tribute to their African American heritage and a protest against racial discrimination, the International Olympic Committee and the U.S. Olympic Committee deemed it a violation of Olympic ideals. Smith and Carlos were swiftly banned from the Olympic Village and sent home, facing considerable backlash but also galvanizing support for their cause.

Despite the political turmoil, the 1968 Mexico Olympics also witnessed remarkable sporting achievements. Nearly 5,500 athletes from 112 nations participated, including separate teams for East and West Germany for the first time. These Games were also groundbreaking for introducing mandatory drug testing and female sex verification, setting new standards for future Olympic competitions.

Mexico City’s high altitude (2,300 meters or 7,500 feet) significantly impacted athletic performances. The thin air proved advantageous for sprinters and field athletes, contributing to several world records. However, distance runners, with the exception of those accustomed to high-altitude training, faced considerable challenges. African distance runners, particularly Kenyans, excelled, with Kip Keino of Kenya winning gold and silver medals.

American athletes dominated in track and field events. Bob Beamon’s legendary long jump shattered the world record by an astonishing margin, a record that stood for decades. Lee Evans broke the world record in the 400-meter run, and Dick Fosbury revolutionized the high jump with his innovative “Fosbury Flop” technique, also securing a gold medal.

In swimming, Debbie Meyer of the United States emerged as a star, claiming three gold medals in freestyle events. Klaus Dibiasi of Italy began his Olympic platform diving dominance, winning the first of three career gold medals. Soviet boxer Boris Lagutin secured his second gold medal, and Japanese gymnast Katō Sawao won the first of his individual gold medals in combined exercises.

The United States topped the medal count with 107 medals, followed by the Soviet Union with 91. The 1968 Mexico City Olympics remain a significant chapter in Olympic history, remembered for its blend of political activism, unprecedented athletic feats, and lasting impact on the Olympic movement.

Medal Count (Top 5 Nations)

Source: IOC Website