Paul Robeson: Biography and Achievements

Introduction

Paul Robeson was a distinguished American singer, actor, and political activist.
Recognized as one of the preeminent figures in American theater during the early 20th century.
Active in both the United States and London stage productions.
Known for his strong advocacy for left-wing causes leading to his blacklisting in the 1950s.

Born on April 9, 1898, in Princeton, New Jersey.
Youngest of five children to William Drew Robeson (a former enslaved preacher) and Maria Louisa Bustill (a schoolteacher from a Quaker family).
Attended Rutgers University, where he was an All-American football player and the first Black player on the team, and later Columbia University for law.
Despite earning a law degree, he pursued the stage due to limited opportunities for Black people in law.

Broadway and London debuts in 1922.
Joined the Provincetown Players, an experimental theater group, and performed in significant roles in Eugene O'Neill's plays.
Known for his role in "The Emperor Jones," which was adapted into a film in 1933.
Famous for his bass-baritone singing voice, he popularized the song "Ol' Man River" in the musical "Show Boat."
Played the title role in "Othello," a role that earned him high praise and set Broadway records.
Appeared in films like "Sanders of the River," "Song of Freedom," and "King Solomon's Mines."

Advocated against racism and segregation from a young age.
Worked with Welsh miners and visited the Soviet Union, showing support for various international causes.
During World War II, supported Allied efforts but faced backlash for alleged pro-communist sentiments.
Lost his passport and faced significant career disruptions, leading to his eventual move to Europe.

Authored an autobiography, "Here I Stand," in 1958.
His political stances were reevaluated and gained recognition in the 1970s.
Posthumously honored with documentaries and public spaces named after him.
Impact on civil rights and cultural history recognized by the U.S. Library of Congress.
Passed away on January 23, 1976, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Robeson's life and work remain influential in the fields of music, theater, and civil rights activism.