How did jesse owens winning 4 gold medals impact the nation , the sport and the olympic games movement ?
In 1936, the German “Aryan” athletes were expected to dominate the Olympic Games because they were thought to be the master race. But Jesse Owens broke three world records during that Olympics – in the broad jump, 200-meter race, and the 400-meter relay. He became the first American ever to win four gold medals at a single Olympics. His accomplishment had significant social and cultural impact because he affirmed that individual excellence – not race – is what distinguishes one human being from another. Sadly, this Olympic legend hit on hard times when he returned to America. Jesse was treated as a second-class citizen because of his race, yet he continued to show class and dignity. He worked with underprivileged kids and gave motivational speeches at a time when professional athletes were not paid the lucrative endorsements of today. Jesse spoke out because he wanted to impact lives. His accomplishments inspired the track-and-field athletes who followed in his footsteps, like Michael
