Bobby Orr Taking Flight
Possibly one of the most amazing photos in the history of the NHL belongs to Bobby Orr, the Boston Bruins Hall of Fame defenseman. In Game 4 of the 1970 NHL Stanley Cup Finals, they went into overtime, and the Bruins were on the verge of securing their first Cup since 1941, and Orr delivered.
Orr was unintentionally tripped by a defenseman, which sent him flying almost immediately after sinking the game-winning goal. The photo, taken from behind the goal, would come to symbolize Orr’s illustrious career.
Ali Knocks Out Liston
This may have been called one of the most significant sporting events of the 20th century, Muhammad Ali versus Sonny Liston's fight was held in Lewiston, Me. Ali later revealed that it was Sonny Liston who gave him the toughest fight of his entire career.
Ali caught Liston with a swift, nearly invisible hook that sent the former champion tumbling to the floor. The photo of Ali reveling above his downed opponent has become one of the most famous in boxing.
Jackie Robinson Going Pro
Jackie Robinson was the man that would derail baseball's color barrier, and to do so; he had to be amazing on the field. He had to demonstrate to potential suitors that he was fit to play in an all-white league and, despite the racist taunts and intimidations, could still perform professionally.
Robinson finished his notable career as a six-time All-Star, World Series champion, as well as a National League MVP. More importantly, he completed his career as a trailblazer who would change the fates of minorities in America by opening previously doors shut. Major League Baseball retired his number 42 across the league.
In one of the biggest Super Bowl setbacks, Joe Namath and his team, the underdog Jets offense picked apart the esteemed Colts defense on their way to a 16-7 victory. It proved to be the Jets' only Super Bowl victory. Namath was named MVP of the game. Since Namath retired, The Jets have yet to find a permanent quarterback.
Tommie Smith and John Carlos
They were raising their fists in a gesture for equality during the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. The atmosphere around the 1968 games was full of tension regarding social injustices taking place across the globe. With this display, they tried to draw international awareness to racial discrimination and bigotry in the United States.
American sprinters Smith and Carlos (gold and bronze respectively) also took off their shoes to raise awareness for poverty and injustice in America. To some, this move was criticized as a political stunt in an otherwise apolitical event. Others maintained the two athletes were civil heroes who used their platform for good.