WILMA RUDOLPH
Athlete + Activist Project
Wilma Rudolph was born in Tennessee in 1940. She dealt with numerous childhood illnesses, including pneumonia and scarlet fever. In 1944 she contracted polio and later became paralyzed in her left leg. After years of treatment she was able to overcome her health issues and would go on to win 3 gold medals at the 1960 Olympics in Rome, setting a world record in each event. It was the first time an American woman had won three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. In 1962 Rudolph retired from her athletic career to become a teacher & coach, working to increase opportunities for underserved and marginalized children interested in sports.
Wilma Rudolph was born in Tennessee in 1940. She dealt with numerous childhood illnesses, including pneumonia and scarlet fever. In 1944 she contracted polio and later became paralyzed in her left leg. After years of treatment she was able to overcome her health issues and would go on to win 3 gold medals at the 1960 Olympics in Rome, setting a world record in each event. It was the first time an American woman had won three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. In 1962 Rudolph retired from her athletic career to become a teacher & coach, working to increase opportunities for underserved and marginalized children interested in sports.
