Paul Robeson (April 9, 1898 - January 23, 1976) was an American concert bass-baritone, athlete, actor and political activist. Born in Princeton, New Jersey he was educated at Rutgers College and Columbia University Law School. After briefly practicing as a lawyer he left the trade due to racism and instead pursued a career in acting and singing. He is best remembered for singing the song “Ol’ Man River” from the Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II musical Showboat.