On this day in history, May 28, 1888, Jim Thorpe, 'greatest athlete in the world,' is born

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Two-time Olympic gold medalist and Pro Football Hall of Fame member James Francis "Jim" Thorpe came into this world on this day in history, May 28, 1888.

Born in a one-room cabin in the geographical area that is now Oklahoma, Thorpe was raised by Hiram and Charlotte Vieux Thorpe on the Sac and Fox reservation, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society. 

Thorpe was given the Native American name "Wa-tho-huck," meaning "Bright Path" in Sac and Fox language. 

This name would quickly turn prophetic, as Thorpe would establish himself as one of the athletic superstars of the 20th century.

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In 1903, Thorpe moved from Oklahoma to Pennsylvania to attend the Carlisle Indian School in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, said the Oklahoma Historical Society. While at the Carlisle Indian School, Thorpe flourished as an athlete, although his sports career had a rather unorthodox start. 

Coached by future College Football Hall of Fame inductee Glenn S. "Pop" Warner, Thorpe joined the school's track and football teams, said the Oklahoma Historical Society's website. 

Jim Thorpe, seen here in 1910, was born on this day in history, May 28, 1888. (Getty Images)

Thorpe's entry into track and field began in 1907, the Smithsonian Magazine notes. While walking across campus, Thorpe saw the track team practicing the high jump. 

Thorpe, who was 5'8" at the time, asked if he could try to jump the bar, which was set at 5'9", said the Smithsonian Magazine. 

Wearing "overalls and a hickory work shirt," Thorpe cleared the bar — and set the rest of his life in motion. 

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