In 2016, 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick began kneeling during the National Anthem to raise awareness of the Black Lives Matter movement. When President Donald Trump weighed in by condemning such actions, the focus dramatically expanded to questions of free speech, patriotism, and respecting the flag. While many lament the entrance of politics into their Sunday football, we speak with three historians and sports fans—Hasan Jeffries, Robert Bennett, and Marc Horger—to discuss the long history of sports protests, why they are so controversial, and the historical issues at the heart of today's conversation. Listen in, as we learn how sports have never been immune from politics or protest.
History Talk is a history podcast for everyone, featuring smart conversations about today’s most interesting topics and produced by Ohio State's Origins: Current Events in Historical Perspective.