Josephine Baker - First Black Superstar

Josephine Baker grew up at a time in America when black people were treated inferior their white peers. Although she came from 'nothing' her energy, charisma and talent let her out of St. Louis and eventually to New York to experience the Harlem Renaissance and later to travel the USA. At the young age of 19 she left the country to perform with an all black group in Paris and "find freedom". I find it interesting and inspiring that minorities are forced to "find freedom" in other countries then American, which is "the land of the free". This video shows how much throughout history our culture has persecuted others who we see as lesser then the majority.

After making her debut on a French stage nearly naked and performing beautifully, she became an overnight sensation. Some were outraged and others inspired by her movements. She almost reminds me of modern day celebrities with her reputation as a diva, sexual prowess and love for eccentric and flashy possessions including a pet cheetah.

Was she subverting or perpetuating a stereotype? A women in the video states she was subverting the stereotypes formerly put out by the minstrel shows and black face with her laughing and attitude, which made it seem she was in control. She became the black ideal women that white men could fantasize about and a role model for other young performers.

It is sad to see the backlash this icon of her time faced in her performances in America. This video shows how American racism and bigotry can drive away amazing individuals that could be contributing to our society. These prejudices still exist in many forms today.  Josephine Baker was an inspirational figure but I think an important lesson can be learned from her life and experiences. That is that when we persecute, ostracize or take rights away from minorities we are doing a great injustice to society and perhaps missing out on their potential contributions.