As we approach the Paris 2024 Olympics, let’s delve into one of the most remarkable stories that transcended sports: the friendship between Luz Long and Jesse Owens at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
Their camaraderie, witnessed by Adolf Hitler, defied the Nazi regime’s racist ideology and left an indelible mark on history.
Defying Nazi ideals at Berlin 1936
On August 4, 1936, in front of an audience that included Adolf Hitler, a moment of profound humanity unfolded at the Berlin Olympics. Luz Long, a German athlete, warmly congratulated Jesse Owens, an African American, after his victory in the long jump. This scene was everything the Nazi regime despised and sought to avoid showcasing. The Berlin Olympics were intended to demonstrate Aryan supremacy to the world. Yet, the extraordinary talent of Jesse Owens and the sportsmanship of Luz Long turned this event into a poignant message against racism. Their actions on that day symbolized a powerful defiance of the hateful ideology that was taking hold in Europe.
The day racism was challenged
The Berlin stadium was filled with spectators cheering for Luz Long, the favored son of Nazi Germany. Hitler himself had declared Long as his favorite athlete. Long, with his aristocratic background and model Aryan features, was the embodiment of Nazi ideals. These Olympics were a propaganda tool for the regime, showcasing their vision of racial superiority. In contrast, Jesse Owens was the grandson of slaves, raised in poverty, and faced with rampant racism in the United States. His natural athletic prowess helped him rise above his circumstances, earning him a place at the Berlin Games. The day before his long jump event, Owens had already won the 100 meters, setting a near world record and delivering a blow to Nazi pride.
An act of true sportsmanship
On August 4, Owens struggled to qualify for the long jump final. In a display of true sportsmanship, Luz Long approached Owens and offered him advice on his run-up. This crucial guidance helped Owens make a successful final attempt, securing his place in the finals. Their competition saw Owens and Long initially tying, but Owens eventually leaped to victory with jumps of 7.94 meters and 8.06 meters, winning his second gold medal of the Games. This outcome was not what the Nazi regime had envisioned. Even more unsettling for them was what followed: Luz Long, after losing to his African American rival, embraced Owens and joined him for a victory lap. This act of camaraderie enraged Nazi officials, with Hitler refusing to acknowledge Owens’ achievements. Long’s defiance continued to echo in the words of his son, who later revealed that Nazi officials had forbidden Long from ever embracing a black man again.
Jesse Owens of USA winning gold for the long jump in the summer Olympics in Germany, 1936. The man saluting behind Owens is Lutz Long, a German who shared training tips with Owens and was the first to openly congratulate him after his final jump in full view of Hitler.… pic.twitter.com/3b2ucNv0CD
— Fascinating (@fasc1nate) March 24, 2024
An enduring friendship
Despite the regime’s directives, the friendship between Long and Owens grew stronger. Their bond lasted until Long’s tragic death in 1943 during the Allied invasion of Sicily. Owens continued to honor the memory of his friend, frequently visiting Long’s family in Berlin and sharing their story of mutual respect and defiance against racism.
Legacy of their friendship
The friendship between Luz Long and Jesse Owens remains a powerful symbol of resistance against racial hatred. A photograph of the two athletes lying on the track, smiling and united, defied the Nazi censors and became an iconic image. This moment captured the essence of the Olympics – a celebration of human spirit and solidarity, impervious to the divisive ideologies of the time.
The impact of their legacy
The story of Luz Long and Jesse Owens is a testament to the enduring power of sportsmanship and friendship. As we look forward to the Paris 2024 Olympics, their legacy serves as a reminder of the role sports can play in challenging injustice and fostering unity. Their actions at the Berlin Olympics were a profound statement that transcended the sporting arena, resonating through history as a beacon of hope and humanity.
This article explores the inspiring friendship between Luz Long and Jesse Owens at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, highlighting their defiance of Nazi racial ideology. It delves into their remarkable sportsmanship, the challenges they faced, and the enduring legacy of their bond. Their story is a powerful reminder of the role of sports in promoting unity and challenging injustice.
