In what year did the first US Paralympic gold medalist compete?

The first US Paralympic gold medalist competed in 1960, which marks a significant milestone in the history of the Paralympic Games. This was the year that marked the beginning of the official Paralympic Games as we know them today, held in Rome, Italy. The event brought together athletes with disabilities from various countries, showcasing their talents and competitive spirit on an international stage.

The 1960 Games are particularly notable because they represented a shift towards inclusive sports that recognized the achievements of athletes with disabilities. The U.S. delegation performed admirably, and this was a foundational moment that set the stage for future Paralympic events, where competitive sports for athletes with disabilities would be recognized on a global platform.

While 1956 does hold historical importance with the first official Paralympic event occurring in that year, it was not until 1960 that the Games were fully established and that U.S. athletes won gold medals. Therefore, the year 1960 is the correct answer as it signifies the actual beginning of medal competitions for U.S. athletes at the Paralympic Games.