In 1936 Adolf Hitler's theory of Aryan supremacy was upset when a certain black American athlete defeated his German stars, winning four gold medals in running and long jump at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. Who was he?

The 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin (Review) were intended by Adolf Hitler to be a grand showcase for his theories of Aryan racial superiority. His plans, however, were famously dismantled by the incredible performance of James Cleveland "Jesse" Owens. The son of an Alabama sharecropper and a student at Ohio State University, Owens delivered one of the most dominant and politically significant performances in sports history. He single-handedly crushed the myth of the "master race" by winning four gold medals in the 100-meter dash, the 200-meter dash, the 4x100-meter relay, and the long jump.

His victory in the long jump was particularly memorable. After nearly failing to qualify, Owens received friendly advice from his German competitor, Luz Long, who suggested he adjust his takeoff point. Owens went on to win the gold, and his public friendship with Long was a powerful rebuke of the Nazi regime's hateful ideology. Hitler was reportedly so incensed by Owens's success that he refused to shake his hand.

Despite his heroism in Berlin, Owens returned to an America still plagued by racial segregation. He faced discrimination and struggled for years to find the recognition and opportunities afforded to white athletes of his stature. Nevertheless, his triumph in the heart of Nazi Germany remains an iconic moment, a testament to athletic brilliance and a powerful symbol of courage in the face of prejudice.