American Experience

Jesse Owens

The most famous athlete of his time, his stunning triumph at the 1936 Olympic Games captivated the world even as it infuriated the Nazis. Despite the racial slurs he endured, Jesse Owens' grace and athleticism rallied crowds across the globe. But when the four-time Olympic gold medalist returned home, he could not even ride in the front of a bus.

Jesse Owens

52m 2s

The most famous athlete of his time, his stunning triumph at the 1936 Olympic Games captivated the world even as it infuriated the Nazis. Despite the racial slurs he endured, Jesse Owens' grace and athleticism rallied crowds across the globe. But when the four-time Olympic gold medalist returned home, he could not even ride in the front of a bus.

Previews + Extras

  • Jesse Owens Behind the Scenes: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Jesse Owens Behind the Scenes

    S24 E7 - 2m 25s

    The most famous athlete of his time, his stunning triumph at the 1936 Olympic Games captivated the world even as it infuriated the Nazis. Despite the racial slurs he endured, Jesse Owens' grace and athleticism rallied crowds across the globe. But when the four-time Olympic gold medalist returned home, he could not even ride in the front of a bus.

  • A Hero's Welcome?: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    A Hero's Welcome?

    S24 E7 - 1m 35s

    After victories at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Jesse Owens returned to a segregated America.

  • Jesse Owens Preview: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Jesse Owens Preview

    S24 E7 - 30s

    The most famous athlete of his time, his stunning triumph at the 1936 Olympic Games captivated the world even as it infuriated the Nazis. Despite the racial slurs he endured, Jesse Owens' grace and athleticism rallied crowds across the globe. But when the four-time Olympic gold medalist returned home, he could not even ride in the front of a bus.

  • Jesse Owens, Chapter 1: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Jesse Owens, Chapter 1

    S24 E7 - 10m 28s

    The most famous athlete of his time, his stunning triumph at the 1936 Olympic Games captivated the world even as it infuriated the Nazis. Despite the racial slurs he endured, Jesse Owens' grace and athleticism rallied crowds across the globe. But when the four-time Olympic gold medalist returned home, he could not even ride in the front of a bus.

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