Josephine Baker, a dancer, singer, activist, and spy, was a celebrated figure who defied odds and made significant contributions. Despite her humble beginnings, Baker overcame adversity to achieve great success. Among her noteworthy accomplishments as an African-American woman were starring in a major film—a groundbreaking feat at the time—and being the first to integrate a concert in Las Vegas. Although she emerged during the Harlem Renaissance, Baker ultimately garnered fame and recognition in France. Notably, she became the first black woman in France to receive military honors.
Despite facing segregation and racism in the United States, Baker’s success in Europe enabled her to contribute to the French resistance as a spy during World War II. Despite being unwelcome in her own country, Baker persevered and remained actively involved in the Harlem Renaissance.
Josephine Baker was born in St. Louis, MO on June 3, 1906 to Carrie McDonald. There is a debate about the identity of Baker’s father, but it is rumored that Eddie Carson, a drummer who had an entertainment act with Baker’s mother, may be her father. At birth, Baker was named Freda Josephine McDonald (Robinson). However, she later changed her name when she entered the entertainment industry.
In her youth, Baker was always poorly dressed and hungry; she started working at the age of 8 years old (Whitaker 64). She worked as domestic help for a white family; the woman of the house was reportedly abusive to Baker. At the age of 12, Baker dropped out of school. After Baker dropped out of school, she became homeless (Wood 241–318). While living on the streets, Baker, only 13 years old, married Willie Wells. The couple divorced shortly after their marriage.
References
- (Josephine Baker History) Again, Baker be. .n, Susan. “Josephine Baker.” Josephine Baker. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Dec. 2013.
- Lewis, Jone J. “Josephine Baker.” About.com Women’s History. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Dec. 2013.
- Williams, Iain Cameron. Underneath a Harlem Moon: The Harlem to Paris Years of Adelaide Hall. London: Continuum, 2002.
- Cullen, Frank, Florence Hackman, and Donald McNeilly. Vaudeville, Old & New: An Encyclopedia of Variety Performers in America. New York: Routledge, 2007. Print.”AllMusic.” AllMusic. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Dec. 2013.
- Shaffer, Ann. “Josephine Baker: A Centenary Tribute | Blackgrooves.org.” Josephine Baker: A Centenary Tribute | Blackgrooves.org. Black Grooves, 4 Oct. 2006. Web. 14 Dec. 2013.
