Paul Robeson: The Life And Legacy Of A Cultural Icon (1898-1976)

Paul Robeson was not just a performer; he was a symbol of resilience, talent, and activism. As a celebrated athlete and artist, he broke barriers in both sports and entertainment. But his influence extended far beyond the stage and screen—he was a passionate advocate for civil rights and social justice. In an era fraught with racial tensions and political strife, Robeson's life offers valuable lessons on the power of voice and conviction.

Who Was Paul Robeson?

Paul Robeson was a stellar athlete and performing artist. He starred in both stage and film versions of The Emperor Jones and Show Boat, establishing an immensely popular screen and singing career of international proportions. Robeson spoke out against racism and became a world activist, and was blacklisted during the paranoia of McCarthyism in the 1950s.

Early Years

Paul Leroy Robeson was born on April 9, 1898, in Princeton, New Jersey, to Anna Louisa and William Drew Robeson, an escaped enslaved person. Tragically, Robeson’s mother died from a fire when he was just six years old. His father, a clergyman, moved the family to Somerville, where young Paul excelled in academics and showcased his singing talent in church.

Star Athlete and Academic

At the age of 17, Robeson earned a scholarship to attend Rutgers University, becoming the third African American to do so. He excelled there, winning top honors for debate and oratory skills, earning 15 letters in four varsity sports, and ultimately graduating as his class valedictorian. Following his graduation, he attended Columbia University’s Law School while teaching Latin and playing professional football on weekends to pay his tuition.

In 1921, he wed fellow Columbia student Eslanda Goode, who would later become his manager and partner in activism. While working briefly as a lawyer, Robeson faced severe racism in his firm, prompting him to fully commit to the stage and performing arts.

Early Roles: 'All God's Chillun' and 'Emperor Jones'

Robeson made a significant impact in the theater world as the lead in the controversial 1924 production of All God's Chillun Got Wings in New York City. The following year, he starred in the London staging of The Emperor Jones, both written by renowned playwright Eugene O'Neill. This marked the beginning of his journey into film, where he appeared in Oscar Micheaux's 1925 work, Body and Soul.

'Show Boat' and 'Ol' Man River'

Although Robeson was not part of the original Broadway production of Show Boat, he gained recognition in the 1928 London version, where he first sang "Ol' Man River," a song that would become his signature piece. This performance solidified his status as a leading figure in the entertainment industry, showcasing his powerful voice and stage presence.

'Borderline,' 'Othello,' and 'Tales of Manhattan'

In the late 1920s, Robeson and his family moved to Europe, where he further established his reputation as an international star through films like Borderline (1930). He starred in the 1933 remake of The Emperor Jones and appeared in several British films, including the musical Big Fella and the second adaptation of Show Boat in 1936.

Robeson's last film was Tales of Manhattan (1942), which he criticized for its negative portrayal of African Americans. His portrayal of Othello in both 1930 and again in the acclaimed 1943-44 Theatre Guild production set records, highlighting his immense acting talent.

Activism and Blacklisting

A beloved international figure, Robeson was a fervent advocate against racial injustice. He supported various political causes, sang for Loyalist soldiers during the Spanish Civil War, participated in anti-Nazi demonstrations, and performed for Allied forces in World War II. His visits to the Soviet Union in the mid-1930s nurtured his appreciation for Russian folk culture.

However, his relationship with the U.S.S.R. became controversial, especially amid the political climate of McCarthyism. Misrepresentations of his views led to accusations of communism, and he faced severe backlash from government officials and some African American leaders. By 1950, Robeson was barred from traveling abroad and blacklisted from concert venues and studios in the U.S., severely impacting his career and finances.

Later Years, Book & Death

In 1958, Robeson published his autobiography, Here I Stand, the same year he regained his passport. Although he received international accolades, he struggled with depression and health issues. After returning to the U.S. in 1963, he lived with his sister following Eslanda’s death in 1965. Paul Robeson passed away from a stroke on January 23, 1976, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Paul Robeson's Legacy

In recent years, efforts have been made to honor Robeson's contributions to arts and activism. Several biographies, including Martin Duberman's Paul Robeson: A Biography, have been published, and he was posthumously inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. The 2007 Criterion release, Paul Robeson: Portraits of the Artist, showcased his films and documented his life, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Key Takeaways