Paul Robeson was born in Princeton, New Jersey, April 9, 1898. His father had been a slave. Paul excelled in school as a scholar and athlete and graduated from Rutgers University. Robeson became known for his singing voice, performing beautiful interpretations of spirituals. Robeson lived and performed in Europe during the 20's and 30's.

Robeson was a political activist for over 50 years. He deplored racism and class difference. He got his socialist ideals from his friend George Bernard Shaw, and during this period he became interested in the Soviet Union. He admired the Soviet Union's lack of racial prejudice and even became personal friends with Premier Krushchev. His passport was revoked and he was blacklisted from 1950 to 1958.

During all of this he still fought for dignity and equality for all humans. In the 60's he retired because of illness. He was a rare talent who was not allowed to enjoy his fame because of his beliefs.