Jesse Owens for Kids
Olympic champion!
"Meet Jesse Owens! Born in Alabama in 1913, Jesse grew up picking cotton with his family. When he was 9, his family moved to Cleveland, Ohio, searching for a better life. At school, Jesse discovered something amazing - he could RUN! His gym teacher, Charles Riley, saw Jesse running during recess and knew he was special. 'You're the fastest kid I've ever seen!' Coach Riley said. Jesse's family was very poor. He worked jobs after school to help buy food. But Coach Riley believed in him. He let Jesse practice early in the morning before work, because Jesse had to help his family in the afternoons. With every practice, Jesse got faster. And faster. And FASTER! He had found his superpower."
Fun facts about Jesse Owens
- Jesse's real name was J.C., but when his teacher asked his name, he said 'J.C.' with his Southern accent - she thought he said 'Jesse' and the name stuck!
- On May 25, 1935, Jesse broke THREE world records and tied a fourth - all in just 45 minutes! This is called 'the greatest 45 minutes in sports history!'
- Some people wanted America to boycott the 1936 Olympics because of Hitler's racist beliefs, but Jesse wanted to compete and show what Black athletes could do!
- When Jesse arrived in Germany, he was surprised that German people were friendlier to him than many white Americans - they asked for his autograph everywhere!
- Jesse ran so fast that he won by more than a meter - in the 100-meter dash, that's an enormous margin!
What your child will learn
- Learn about Jesse Owens
- Be inspired
- Value heritage
Read the full illustrated story of Jesse Owens
The complete lesson has a page-by-page illustrated story and a playful quiz— plus 28 more heroes and hundreds of lessons. Start free, no card needed.
Start free with Jesse