In August 1972, the New York Times posed a question: “Is it time to break the silence on Paul Robeson?” Robeson was a remarkable figure—a bass-baritone, actor, and political activist whose talent shone brightly in the first half of the 20th century. Sadly, after his death, his legacy faded, overshadowed by political tensions similar to what we see today.
Robeson made history in 1943 as the first Black man to star in Othello on Broadway. Before that, Black roles were often played by white actors in blackface. His Othello run, lasting 296 performances, set a Broadway record. Beyond theater, Robeson was a two-time All-American football player at Rutgers, graduated from Columbia Law School, and even played in the NFL. His influence extended to generations of Black artists, setting a high bar for greatness.
However, when Cold War fears escalated, Robeson faced backlash for his refusal to denounce the Soviet Union. Mainstream white America and many Black leaders distanced themselves from him, fearing the label of “communist.” Even Jackie Robinson—a hero for breaking baseball’s color barrier—testified against Robeson in Congress, an act that haunted him later.
This stark betrayal mirrors today’s political landscape, where many feel forced to choose sides. Disillusionment among Black Americans is palpable, especially regarding the current political climate. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center noted that over 60% of Black Americans feel that their rights are under threat. This rising tension echoes Robeson’s experience, reminding us how political decisions can vilify even the most prominent voices.
Even now, Robeson’s story speaks to cultural suppression. He was often left out of history books and public discourse, overshadowed by figures like Nathan Hale or Barrymore. His contributions, once dismissed, are now slowly gaining recognition.
Similarly, Malcolm X experienced this erasure until a new generation of artists and activists, like Spike Lee, reclaimed his legacy. Robeson, too, is waiting for that revival, recognizing that his story deserves to be told.
As we reflect on Robeson’s life, we see a legacy of resilience and artistic brilliance that must not be forgotten. His silence should serve as a powerful reminder to acknowledge the voices that challenge the status quo, both past and present.
For more on this topic, you can read about Paul Robeson in the book “Kings And Pawns” by Howard Bryant here.
