About This Lesson
African Americans and the Arts.
Educator Sari Beth Rosenberg shares a brief history of Josephine Baker, who was one of the first African American performers to find great success in both movies and on stage, in both the United States and Europe. She was also a civil rights activist and spy during World War II fighting for the French Resistance.
This lesson highlights the extraordinary life of Josephine Baker, a groundbreaking performer, French Resistance spy, and committed civil rights activist. Students will trace Baker’s journey from a difficult childhood in St. Louis to global stardom in Paris, where she escaped American racism and became one of Europe’s most celebrated entertainers. The lesson explores her daring role in World War II, her fight to integrate audiences in the U.S., and her moving appearance at the 1963 March on Washington. Through critical thinking and creative activities, students will examine how Baker used her fame to challenge injustice and promote unity through her "Rainbow Tribe" and advocacy work
