Philippines 1968 Summer Olympic Mexico 1968 Complete imperforated set MNH

Philippines 1968 Summer Olympic Mexico 1968 Complete imperforated set MNH

The 1968 Summer Olympic Games, officially known as the Games of the XIX Olympiad, were held in Mexico City, Mexico, from October 12 to October 27, 1968. These Olympics were significant for various reasons, including their impact on sports, culture, and society.

Here are some key highlights from the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico:

1. High Altitude: Mexico City’s high altitude (approximately 2,240 meters or 7,350 feet above sea level) posed a significant challenge for athletes, particularly those accustomed to lower altitudes. The thin air affected endurance events, leading to concerns about athletes’ health and performance.
2. Records and Achievements: Despite the altitude challenges, numerous world records were set during the 1968 Olympics. Notably, American sprinter Jim Hines became the first person to officially break the 10-second barrier in the 100 meters, clocking 9.95 seconds. Bob Beamon’s extraordinary long jump of 8.90 meters shattered the previous world record by nearly half a meter and stood as the Olympic record for almost 23 years.
3. Tommie Smith and John Carlos: The iconic image of American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raising their fists in a black power salute during the medal ceremony for the 200 meters sparked controversy and remains one of the most enduring symbols of athlete activism in Olympic history.
4. Paralympic Games Debut: The 1968 Paralympic Games, then known as the 9th International Stoke Mandeville Games for the Paralyzed, were held in Mexico City following the conclusion of the Summer Olympics. This marked the first time the Paralympic Games were held in the same city and year as the Olympic Games.
5. Cultural Significance: The 1968 Olympics were also significant in terms of cultural and architectural legacy. The Games left a lasting impact on Mexico City’s infrastructure, with notable structures like the Estadio Olímpico Universitario and the iconic Olympic Rings Fountain in the Olympic Village.