Herbert Paul Douglas Jr. was an American athlete, renowned track and field athlete and a triple jumper best known for winning a bronze medal in the triple jump event in the 1948 London Olympics. Douglas was the third African-American athlete to win an Olympic medal in track and field, following in the footsteps of Jesse Owens and Ralph Metcalfe. Douglas first attended Xavier University of Louisiana in 1942 where he competed in track. After his athletic career, Douglas became a successful busines... moreHerbert Paul Douglas Jr. was an American athlete, renowned track and field athlete and a triple jumper best known for winning a bronze medal in the triple jump event in the 1948 London Olympics. Douglas was the third African-American athlete to win an Olympic medal in track and field, following in the footsteps of Jesse Owens and Ralph Metcalfe. Douglas first attended Xavier University of Louisiana in 1942 where he competed in track. After his athletic career, Douglas became a successful businessman and worked as an executive for several companies, including PepsiCo and Gillette. He was also an active member of the National Urban League and worked to promote civil rights and equality for African Americans. Throughout his life, Douglas was a role model for young athletes and an inspiration to many. He continued to be involved in sports and mentored young athletes, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. At the time of his death at age 101 he was the oldest living U.S. Olympic medalist. Douglas was inducted into the University of Pittsburgh sports hall of fame in 2018 and the Taylor Allderdice High School alumni hall of fame in 2009.
