paul leroy robeson ( april 9, 1898 – january 23, 1976) was an african-american singer and actor who became involved with the civil rights movement. he was a consensus first-team all-american football player at rutgers, as well as class valedictorian. he had an international career in singing, as well as acting in theater and movies. he was politically involved in many issues, including the spanish civil war, fascism, and social injustices. his supported anti-imperialism and communism. because he was critical of the u.s. government he was blacklisted during mccarthyism. he was forced to retire because of poor health.