The History of African American Achievement in the Olympic Games
1996
73 Minutes
Documentary
Available on VHS
Greg Gumbel hosts this 73 minute video that was originally broadcast on Saturday, February 24, 1996 and was made available on VHS in 1997 by Xenon Entertainment Group. This documentary examines the role of African-Americans in the modern Olympic Games (1986-1996). You will see the 100 year history of the games within the social context of a post-industrial revolution American society fraught with the inequities accorded its black population. It records through archival footage the triumphs and controversies of African American participation in the games, from Jessie Owens’ victories over the German [Juggenaut] to the clenched fist salute of John Carlos and Tommie Smith in Mexico City in 1968. The program captures both the poignant and passionate moments including many athlete who run such as Gail Devers, Rafer Johnson, Carl Lewis, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Jesse Owens, Edwin Moses, and Abebe Bikila. If you want to own your own copy of this tape than go to Amazon.com to check availability.
