Sports Then and Now

Jesse Owens’ performance at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin remains one of the most significant and memorable moments in sports history. Against the backdrop of Nazi propaganda and racial tension, Owens not only showcased extraordinary athletic prowess but also delivered a powerful blow to Adolf Hitler’s ideology of Aryan supremacy. This article delves into Owens’ remarkable achievements in Berlin, the context of the era, and the lasting impact of his victories.

Background and Context

The 1936 Summer Olympics, held in Berlin, Germany, were intended by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime to be a showcase of Aryan superiority. The games were heavily propagandized, with the Nazis aiming to demonstrate the dominance of the “master race.” However, the stage was set for an African American athlete from Alabama to challenge and ultimately dismantle these notions through sheer athletic excellence.

James Cleveland “Jesse” Owens was born on September 12, 1913, in Oakville, Alabama. Growing up in a segregated America, Owens faced significant racial discrimination but found solace and opportunity in athletics. His talent was evident from a young age, and he went on to set multiple world records in high school and at Ohio State University. By the time the Berlin Olympics arrived, Owens was already a formidable competitor on the international stage.

The Olympic Games

100 Meters Dash

The 100 meters dash was the first event in which Owens competed, and he quickly set the tone for his Olympic campaign. On August 3, 1936, Owens won the gold medal with a time of 10.3 seconds, tying the world record. His victory was a direct challenge to the Nazi propaganda, as he bested Germany’s own athletes in front of Hitler and a partisan crowd.

Professional sports are filled with remarkable stories of sibling rivalries and partnerships. Brothers or sisters competing at the highest level often push each other to new heights, creating legendary moments and leaving lasting legacies. Here are the top 10 sibling tandems in professional sports, showcasing their impact and achievements.

1. Manning Brothers (Peyton and Eli Manning) – American Football

The Manning brothers are synonymous with NFL success. Peyton, a two-time Super Bowl champion and five-time MVP, is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Eli, also a two-time Super Bowl champion, earned MVP honors in both of his Super Bowl victories. Their combined accolades and leadership have left a significant mark on the NFL.

2. Williams Sisters (Serena and Venus Williams) – Tennis

Serena and Venus Williams have dominated women’s tennis for over two decades. Together, they have won 30 Grand Slam singles titles (Serena 23, Venus 7) and 14 Grand Slam doubles titles. Their rivalry and partnership have revolutionized the sport, inspiring countless athletes around the world.

Though the upcoming games will mark the first time that France has hosted the Summer Olympics in 100 years, the country still has a very long and storied connection with the modern Olympic Games. The nation not only hosted some of the most memorable Olympic Games but also played a pivotal role in the revival of the modern Olympics.

The Revival of the Modern Olympics

The modern Olympic Games owe much of their existence to a Frenchman, Baron Pierre de Coubertin. Inspired by the ancient Greek Olympic Games, de Coubertin sought to promote peace and unity through sports. In 1894, he established the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Paris, marking the official revival of the modern Olympic Games. The first modern Olympics were held in Athens, Greece, in 1896, but France’s involvement was instrumental in their conception and continuation.

The 1900 Paris Olympics

The second modern Olympic Games were held in Paris in 1900, as part of the World’s Fair. These games were notably different from today’s Olympics in several ways. They spanned over five months, from May to October, and featured a mix of traditional and non-traditional sports. Women participated for the first time in events like tennis and golf.

However, the 1900 Paris Olympics faced several challenges. The events were poorly organized, with many athletes unaware they were participating in the Olympics. Despite this, the games were significant for their inclusivity and the diverse range of sports, including croquet and motor racing.

The 1924 Paris Olympics

Paris hosted the Olympics again in 1924, an event often regarded as the first truly modern Olympic Games. These games introduced many features still present today, such as the Olympic Village for athletes, a closing ceremony, and the official use of the Olympic motto, “Citius, Altius, Fortius” (Faster, Higher, Stronger).

Professional sports have always been a stage for extraordinary talent, resilience, and dedication. Among the countless inspiring stories, one of the most fascinating narratives is that of father-son duos who both excelled in their respective sports. These combinations showcase not only genetic prowess but also the influence of legacy, mentorship, and shared passion. Here are ten of the best father-son combinations in professional sports.

1. Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. (Baseball)

Ken Griffey Sr. had a distinguished career in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily with the Cincinnati Reds, where he was a key player during the team’s “Big Red Machine” era in the 1970s. A three-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, Griffey Sr. established himself as a consistent and reliable player.

Ken Griffey Jr., however, elevated the family name to legendary status. With a career spanning 22 years, primarily with the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds, Griffey Jr. became one of the most prolific and admired players in MLB history. He was a 13-time All-Star, 10-time Gold Glove winner, and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016 with one of the highest voting percentages ever. His sweet swing, defensive prowess, and charismatic personality made him a fan favorite and an enduring icon of the sport.

2. Archie, Peyton, and Eli Manning (Football)

Archie Manning was a standout quarterback for the New Orleans Saints during the 1970s and early 1980s. Despite playing for a struggling team, Manning’s talent and leadership were evident, and he became a beloved figure in New Orleans.

Willie Mays and Orlando Cepeda, two iconic members of the Baseball Hall of Fame and longtime teammates with the San Francisco Giants passed away within 10 days of each other in late June.

From their early days in the sport to their contributions on and off the field, Mays and Cepeda’s journeys were defined by talent, resilience, and a deep love for baseball.

Willie Mays: The Say Hey Kid

Willie Howard Mays Jr., born on May 6, 1931, in Westfield, Alabama, emerged as one of the greatest all-around players in baseball history. His journey to stardom began in the Negro Leagues before he signed with the New York Giants (later moving with them to San Francisco) at the age of 20. Mays made his MLB debut on May 25, 1951, quickly demonstrating his exceptional skills as a center fielder and hitter.

The Sports Then and Now Vintage Athlete of the Month was a standout player of the 1980s, remembered not only for his exceptional skills on the field but also for his exemplary character and sportsmanship.

Born on March 12, 1956, in Portland, Oregon, Dale Murphy’s journey to becoming one of the most respected players in baseball history is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and a genuine love for the game.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Murphy was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the first round of the 1974 MLB Draft. He made his Major League debut on September 13, 1976, at the age of 20. Initially a catcher, Murphy transitioned to the outfield early in his career, where he would solidify his place as one of the premier outfielders of his era.