St. Louis, Olympic Games, Marathon: The 1904 Summer Olympics’ Thorny and Chaotic Legacy

The 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis hold a notorious place in the annals of Olympic history, characterized by a blend of groundbreaking achievements and deeply troubling events. The games were tied to the World’s Fair, celebrating the centennial of the Louisiana Purchase, which added layers of complexity and controversy. Thousands of African, Filipino, and indigenous people were displayed in exhibits at the fair, only to be later forced into competing in athletic competitions under the banner of ‘anthropology days.’ These events, organized by the same person who managed the Olympic games, were meant to compare the abilities of these individuals against those of white athletes, thereby perpetuating racial hierarchies. This dark chapter is often omitted from mainstream discussions about the first Olympic Games held in the United States, but it remains a critical aspect of understanding the event’s full historical context.

The 1904 Summer Olympics were the first to be held on American soil, marking several significant milestones, such as the introduction of gold, silver, and bronze medals and the first African American athlete, George Coleman Poage, winning a medal. Despite these achievements, the games are overshadowed by their association with racism and colonialism. The so-called ‘anthropology days’ saw African, Filipino, and indigenous people competing in Western-style events with little to no training or instruction. Their performances were then compared to those of trained white athletes, reinforcing the racial stereotypes of the era. This aspect of the 1904 Olympics is a stark reminder of the period’s prevailing attitudes and the exploitation that accompanied these international competitions.

One of the most infamous events of the 1904 Olympics was the men’s marathon, which turned into a chaotic and hazardous ordeal. Poorly planned and executed, the marathon course spanned 24.85 miles of dusty, unpaved roads with only two water stops. Organizers believed that dehydration could enhance athletic performance, a notion that led to severe consequences for many participants. The initial winner, Frederick Lorz, was disqualified after it was discovered he had hitched a ride for part of the course. The actual winner, Thomas Hicks, was given a mixture of brandy and rat poison to keep him going, causing hallucinations and requiring his trainers to carry him across the finish line. Despite these dangerous and unethical practices, Hicks was declared the winner, highlighting the primitive and perilous nature of early Olympic competitions.

The marathon also featured a cast of unique and colorful characters, each with their own remarkable stories. Félix Carvajal, a Cuban mailman, arrived at the starting line in unconventional attire—long trousers, a beret, and walking shoes. After another competitor took pity on him and cut off his pants at the knee, Carvajal proceeded to steal food from spectators and pass out from eating rotten apples, yet still managed to finish fourth. Len Taunyane and Jan Mashiani, two Tswana tribesmen from South Africa, were the first black Africans to compete in the modern Olympics. Taunyane was chased off course by wild dogs but still finished ninth, while Mashiani came in twelfth. These anecdotes add a layer of absurdity to an already bizarre event, underscoring the lack of organization and foresight that characterized the 1904 marathon.

While the United States dominated the 1904 Olympics, winning 231 out of 280 possible medals, the games are often considered a failure due to the controversies surrounding them. Few top-class athletes from outside the U.S. and Canada participated, largely due to the Russo-Japanese War and travel difficulties. The games were initially supposed to be held in Chicago but were moved to St. Louis to coincide with the World’s Fair. This decision diverted attention away from the Olympic competitions and toward the fair’s various attractions, including the problematic ‘anthropology days.’ These events reinforced racial stereotypes and were a glaring example of the era’s prevailing attitudes toward race and colonialism.

The legacy of the 1904 Summer Olympics is a complex and multifaceted one. On one hand, it marked significant milestones in Olympic history, such as the introduction of the medal system and the participation of the first African American medalist. On the other hand, it is marred by its association with racism, colonialism, and poorly organized events like the men’s marathon. Adam Kloppe, an Olympic historian at the Missouri History Museum, emphasizes the importance of engaging with this thorny history to better understand the present. By acknowledging and learning from these events, we can gain insight into our past and its impact on society today.

The 1904 Olympics also serve as a reminder of the evolution of the games and the changes that have been implemented to ensure fairness and safety. The chaotic and dangerous conditions of the 1904 marathon stand in stark contrast to the highly regulated and well-organized marathons of today. The exploitation of indigenous and marginalized people during the ‘anthropology days’ has led to increased awareness and efforts to promote inclusivity and respect for all cultures in contemporary Olympic competitions. These lessons from the past have contributed to the ongoing efforts to make the Olympics a more equitable and just event for all participants.

Despite the controversies and failures of the 1904 Olympics, they remain a significant part of Olympic history. The games have not returned to St. Louis since, but the United States has hosted the Olympics three more times, with the 2028 games set to take place in Los Angeles. Each iteration of the Olympics builds on the lessons learned from previous games, striving to create a more inclusive and fair competition. The 1904 Olympics, with all their complexities and challenges, have ultimately been a learning experience that has shaped the evolution of the games.

The 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis were a microcosm of the broader societal issues of the time, reflecting the prevailing attitudes toward race, colonialism, and athletic competition. The exploitation of African, Filipino, and indigenous people during the ‘anthropology days’ and the chaotic nature of the men’s marathon are stark reminders of the darker aspects of Olympic history. However, these events also highlight the resilience and determination of the athletes who participated, often under extremely challenging conditions. Their stories serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Olympics and the ongoing efforts to improve and evolve the games.

As we look back on the 1904 Olympics, it is crucial to remember and learn from the injustices and complexities that were a part of it. By acknowledging this thorny history, we can better understand the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done to create a more equitable and inclusive Olympic Games. The 1904 Olympics in St. Louis hold a significant place in history, not only for their achievements but also for the lessons they offer about the importance of fairness, respect, and inclusivity in international competitions.

The story of the 1904 Summer Olympics is a reminder of the importance of historical context in understanding the evolution of the Olympic Games. The controversies and challenges of the 1904 games have had a lasting impact on how the Olympics are organized and conducted today. By reflecting on these events, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the progress that has been made and the ongoing efforts to create a more just and equitable competition for all athletes. The 1904 Olympics, with all their complexities and contradictions, remain a pivotal moment in the history of the games.

The 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis were a turning point in the history of the Olympic Games, marking both significant achievements and troubling controversies. The exploitation of marginalized people during the ‘anthropology days’ and the chaotic men’s marathon are stark reminders of the darker aspects of Olympic history. However, these events also highlight the resilience and determination of the athletes who participated, often under extremely challenging conditions. Their stories serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Olympics and the ongoing efforts to improve and evolve the games.

As we continue to celebrate the achievements of the Olympic Games, it is essential to remember and learn from the past. The 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis offer valuable lessons about the importance of fairness, respect, and inclusivity in international competitions. By acknowledging the complexities and challenges of these games, we can better understand the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done to create a more equitable and inclusive Olympic Games. The 1904 Olympics remain a significant part of Olympic history, offering insights into the evolution of the games and the ongoing efforts to improve and evolve the competition for all athletes.