The Shoeless Stand

On October 16, 1968, Tommie Smith and John Carlos stepped onto the Olympic medal podium in Mexico City wearing only black socks — no shoes. Smith had just shattered the world record in the 200 meters with a time of 19. 83 seconds. Carlos had taken the bronze. But when the Star-Spangled Banner began to play, both men bowed their heads and raised black-gloved fists toward the sky.…