Ballad of an American: A Graphic Biography of Paul Robeson

Known for his rich bass delivery of “Old Man River” from the musical Showboat, Robeson triumphed as a barrier-smashing renaissance man of the mid-20th century. A multi-sport champion, Phi Beta Kappa, actor, singer of multiple musical genres from opera to folk, and all-around nice guy, he leveraged his fame to advance progressive causes around the world with support from wife Eslanda. His entire life pushed back against racism, fascism, and class oppression. Yet while heralded by international millions, Robeson endured hatred and abuse from American racists and “Red Scare” anti-communists while facing Jim Crow-era segregation. Rudahl’s (Dangerous Woman) skillful, swirling grayscale account introduces Robeson to 21st-century activists who write and march and protest, unaware of his vanguard contributions on behalf of workers’ rights, Black civil rights, and international peace. A scholarly afterword from the editors gives additional historical specifics.