On this day, 9 April 1898, Paul Robeson, Black singer, actor, American football player, communist and anti-colonialist was born in Princeton, New Jersey. The son of a previously-enslaved father who escaped a plantation, and a blind mother who died when he was six years old, Robeson learned 15 languages including Latin, ancient Greek and Swahili, and played in the National Football League while graduating from law school.

He quit the sport to focus on his acting and singing careers, starring in films such as “All God’s Chillun Got Wings” (1924) and releasing hits like “Ol’ Man River”.

He also became a revolutionary, and was deeply involved with the struggle against fascism, actively supporting the fight against nationalist general Francisco Franco during the Spanish civil war. He played an active role supporting many workers' struggles, as well as the fight against racism and colonialism.

After World War II, as cold war tensions escalated, he was attacked by the anti-communist programme of Sen Joseph McCarthy, blacklisted and had his passport revoked, which destroyed his career. This began a slide into depression and mental illness, which later resulted in a suicide attempt and repeated medical intervention.

Despite his hardship, he maintained his ideals, and to a tribute held for his 75th birthday which he was unable to attend, he sent a recorded message stating: “I want you to know that I am the same Paul, dedicated as ever to the worldwide causes of humanity for freedom, peace, and brotherhood.”

Eric B. and Rakim

Eric B. and Rakim

Eric B. and Rakim

Eric B. and Rakim

Eric B. and Rakim

Eric B. and Rakim

Eric B. and Rakim