Josephine Baker

Josephine Baker was a dancer, singer, and actress. She was born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1906. She moved to France, where she became one of the most famous entertainers in Europe. She also worked as a spy during World War II and fought for civil rights.

Early Life

Baker grew up in poverty in St. Louis. She started dancing on street corners as a child. She joined a dance troupe as a teenager and eventually made her way to New York. Facing racism in America, she moved to Paris, France, in 1925.

Fame and Activism

Baker became a superstar in Paris with her energetic dance performances. During World War II, she worked as a spy for the French Resistance. After the war, she fought against segregation in the United States. She adopted 12 children from different countries to show that people of all races could be a family.

Fun Facts

• Josephine Baker worked as a spy for the French Resistance during World War II.
• She adopted 12 children from different countries, calling them her 'Rainbow Tribe.'
• She refused to perform for segregated audiences in the United States.

Did You Know?

Josephine Baker hid secret messages in her sheet music and pinned notes inside her underwear to carry information as a spy. No one suspected a famous entertainer of being a secret agent.