A trailblazing African American singer, actor, and civil rights activist, celebrated for his deep baritone voice and commanding stage presence. Born in 1898, he excelled academically and athletically at Rutgers University before pursuing a career that spanned Broadway, film, and international concerts. Despite facing intense racial discrimination and political persecution for his outspoken advocacy for racial equality and workers' rights, he remained steadfast in his commitment to justice and left a lasting legacy as a cultural and social icon.
