Member-only story
The pioneering African American who proved that anything is possible
Despite numerous attempts to silence him, he proved capable of everything he turned his hand to
Paul Robeson was a legendary American performer, activist, and advocate for social justice. He was born on April 9, 1898, in Princeton, New Jersey, and was the son of an escaped slave. Growing up, Robeson faced significant racial barriers, but he went on to become one of the most accomplished and influential figures of the 20th century.
The essential character of a nation is determined not by the upper classes, but by the common people, and that the common people of all nations are truly brothers in the great family of mankind.
Paul Robeson
Athleticism, Law School and the Stage
Robeson was a talented athlete and student, and he went on to attend Rutgers University, where he excelled in both academics and football. He was the third African American to be named to the All-American football team and he graduated with honors in 1919. After college, Robeson went on to pursue a career in law, but sadly found despite his excellence, African American still weren’t welcome in the profession.
