Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Democracy Now: Barbara Ransby -- Remembering the Overlooked Life of Eslanda Robeson, Wife of Civil Rights Legend Paul Robeson

Remembering the Overlooked Life of Eslanda Robeson, Wife of Civil Rights Legend Paul Robeson
Democracy Now

In a Black History Month special, we remember the lives of the legendary civil rights activist, singer and actor Paul Robeson and his wife Eslanda, whose story is not as well known. One of the most celebrated singers and actors of the 20th century, Robeson was attacked, blacklisted and hounded by the government for his political beliefs. Eslanda Robeson, known by her friends as "Essie," was an author, an anthropologist and a globally connected activist who worked to end colonialism in Africa and racism in the United States. We’re joined by historian Barbara Ransby, author of the new biography, "Eslanda: The Large and Unconventional Life of Mrs. Paul Robeson."

Guest:

Barbara Ransby, author of the newly published biography, Eslanda: The large and Unconventional Life of Mrs. Paul Robeson. She is a professor of African-American studies, gender and women’s studies and history at the University of Illinois, Chicago. Her past books include the award-winning Ella Baker and the Black Freedom Movement.

To Watch this Episode

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