People, Places, and the Event 4/12, "Paul Robeson"

As Paul Robeson walked to the stage, the audience rose to its feet with applause. It was their way of saying, "Welcome home, we love you." The year was 1963. Paul had recently returned to the United States after living in Europe for five years. These people had come to show how much they appreciated him.
Paul was a singer, actor, scholar, lawyer, humanitarian, and athlete. He spoke several languages. There weren't many things he couldn't do.
He graduated from Rutgers University with honors and was selected as an All-American football player. His acting career began in 1921 at the Harlem YMCA. A year later, his talent was recognized in the play Emperor Jones. In a few years, Paul was known around the world as a great singer and actor. His rich baritone voice brought joy to millions.
Because of his fame, Paul knew many people would listen to him. So he spoke out against the racism and injustice he saw in America and the world. Some people tried to silence him. In 1950, the United States Government took away his passport. He couldn't perform in other countries, and concert halls in America were closed to him. He was unable to earn a living doing what he loved most. But Paul still spoke out. When the government was forced to give back his passport in 1958, he went to England. He didn't return until 1963.
Despite the many attempts to discredit him, people around the world continued to love and respect Paul Robeson.
He will always be remembered as a person who made great sacrifices to help his fellow man.