Joséphine Baker was a trailblazing entertainer, civil rights activist, and French Resistance agent, originally born in the United States in 1906. She rose to fame in the 1920s and became one of the most celebrated performers in Paris, known for her dynamic presence, signature banana skirt dance, and contributions to jazz and cabaret culture. Her performances blended music, dance, and theatrical flair, making her an icon of the Jazz Age in Europe.
Beyond the stage, Baker was a passionate advocate for racial equality. She refused to perform for segregated audiences during her tours and worked actively with the NAACP. During World War II, she also served France as a spy for the Resistance, using her celebrity status to gather critical intelligence. Later in life, she adopted a large multicultural family—whom she called her “Rainbow Tribe”—as a statement against racial discrimination. Her legacy lives on as a symbol of artistic brilliance and humanitarian courage.
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