Paul Robeson

Date of Birth: April 9, 1898

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: January 23, 1976

Biography

Paul Leroy Robeson was an American bass-baritone concert artist, stage and film actor, athlete, and political activist. Born on April 9, 1898, in Princeton, New Jersey, Robeson gained international acclaim for his deep, powerful voice and commanding presence. He was also a standout athlete at Rutgers University, where he was named a football All-American. Robeson’s career took off in the 1920s and 1930s when he starred in several groundbreaking stage productions and films. He is perhaps best known for his role as Joe in the musical “Show Boat,” where his rendition of “Ol’ Man River” became iconic. In addition to his artistic achievements, Robeson was a fervent advocate for civil rights and social justice. He used his platform to fight against racial discrimination and was an outspoken critic of colonialism and imperialism. Robeson’s activism, however, led to significant personal and professional sacrifices. During the McCarthy era, he was blacklisted and his passport was revoked, severely limiting his ability to perform and travel. Despite these challenges, Robeson remained committed to his principles until his death on January 23, 1976, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

5 Interesting Facts about Paul Robeson

1. Paul Robeson was the first African American to play Othello in a major production in the United States.

2. He was a star athlete at Rutgers University, earning 15 varsity letters across multiple sports.

3. Robeson was fluent in over 20 languages, which he used to communicate directly with audiences around the world.

4. His rendition of “Ol’ Man River” from “Show Boat” is considered one of the greatest performances in American musical theater history.

5. Robeson was awarded the Stalin Peace Prize in 1952 for his efforts in promoting peace and friendship between peoples.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Paul Robeson

1. “The artist must elect to fight for freedom or slavery. I have made my choice. I had no alternative.”

2. “In my music, my plays, my films, I want to carry always this central idea: to be African.”

3. “I am a radical. I am going to stay one until my people get free to walk the earth.”

4. “The answer to injustice is not to silence the critic but to end the injustice.”

5. “Get them to sing your song and they will want to know who you are.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth Paul Robeson achieved is estimated to be around $1 million at the peak of his career, a considerable amount for an African American entertainer in his era.