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Jim Thorpe
He was called the greatest athlete in the world. But his path to victory wasn’t easy.
Jim Thorpe was born in 1887 in what is today Oklahoma. When he was growing up, he was always on the move. At 3 years old, he hunted, swam, and rode horses. He loved being outside!
Thorpe was a citizen of the Sac and Fox Nation. His parents gave him a Native American name. They called him Wa-Tho-Huk. That means bright path.
Later he would use his skills to rise to the top of the sports world—and set a bright example for others.
A Difficult Start
When Thorpe was a kid, his brother and mom died. Thorpe’s dad sent him to the Carlisle school in Pennsylvania. He wanted his son to get an education and learn how to be a tailor. (That’s someone who makes clothes.)
The Carlisle school was for Native students. But they were told not to speak Native languages or wear traditional clothes. Native culture wasn’t allowed.
After Thorpe arrived at the school, his dad died. Sadder than ever, he wasn’t sure what to do next. He found his answer in sports.
Branger/Roger Viollet via Getty Images
Jim Thorpe in 1912
Going for the Gold
Thorpe threw himself into sports and became a star in football and track. He was known for his speed and strength.
Thorpe did so well he went to the 1912 Olympics in Sweden, a country in Europe. He became the first Native American to win a gold medal for the United States. One of his two gold medals was for the decathlon, which has 10 track and field events.
Many people think winning the decathlon is a top honor. The king of Sweden told Thorpe, “Sir, you are the greatest athlete in the world.”
A True Winner
Back in the U.S., Thorpe went on to play Major League Baseball. Some fans called him bad names because he was Native American. But Thorpe kept working hard and played for six years. Later Thorpe excelled as a pro football star in the league that became the National Football League (NFL).
“There was no stopping him,” says his grandson John Thorpe.
Thorpe died in 1953. Today he’s remembered for more than being a great athlete. He also created a bright path for other Native Americans to follow for years to come.
Here are three top moments from Jim Thorpe’s life.
1907: The very first time Thorpe tries the high jump, he sets a school record—while wearing overalls!
1912: Thorpe wins the Olympic gold Medal for the decathlon.
1919: While playing baseball with the Boston Braves, Thorpe becomes the team’s top hitter.
1. What is the meaning of Jim Thorpe’s Native American name? Do you think the name matches the way Thorpe lived his life? Explain.
2. What is the section “A Difficult Start” mainly about?
3. What did Thorpe’s grandson mean when he said “there was no stopping” Thorpe?