Paul LeRoy Robeson
- Born:
- April 9, 1898, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
- Died:
- January 23, 1976, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Singer, Actor, Athlete, Lawyer, Activist
Early Life and Education
- Son of Reverend William Drew Robeson, a former slave, and Maria Louisa Bustill, a teacher from a Quaker family.
- Valedictorian of his class at Somerville High School.
- Attended Rutgers University on an academic scholarship, excelling in football, track, baseball, and basketball.
- Graduated from Rutgers as a Phi Beta Kappa and class valedictorian.
- Earned a law degree from Columbia Law School in 1923.
Career and Major Achievements
- Initially practiced law briefly before pursuing a career in performing arts.
- Rose to international fame as a singer and actor, known for his powerful bass-baritone voice and commanding stage presence.
- Performed in numerous stage productions, including "All God's Chillun Got Wings," "The Emperor Jones," and "Othello."
- Achieved critical acclaim for his film roles, becoming one of the first African American actors to achieve widespread recognition.
- Became a prominent activist, advocating for civil rights, social justice, and international peace.
- Faced persecution during the McCarthy era due to his political beliefs and affiliations, resulting in professional and personal hardships.
Notable Works
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1930 | Borderline | Pete |
| 1933 | The Emperor Jones | Brutus Jones |
| 1935 | Sanders of the River | Bosambo |
| 1936 | Show Boat | Joe |
Discography (Selected)
- "Ol' Man River"
- "Go Down Moses"
- "Joe Hill"
- "The Peat Bog Soldiers"
Legacy and Impact
Paul Robeson remains an iconic figure, celebrated for his artistic achievements, intellectual brilliance, and unwavering commitment to social justice. His life and career are often studied as a significant example when examining topics like 'paul robeson biography timeline examples' in the context of civil rights and artistic expression. Despite facing considerable adversity, he left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring generations of artists and activists. He is remembered as a powerful voice for the marginalized and a champion of human rights.