The event was won by Archie Hahn of the United States, with William Hogenson second and Clyde Blair third as the host nation swept the medals.

American George Poage was the first black man to compete in athletics at the Olympics with his appearance in this event's semifinals; he would become the first black man to medal in athletics when he took bronze in both the 200 and 400 metres hurdles.

Clyde Blair, William Hogenson, and Archie Hahn repeated the Olympic record of 7.0 seconds.

The competition consisted of three rounds: semifinals, a repechage, and a final.

[2] Top finisher in each heat advanced to the final, second place earned another chance in the repechage.