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Harry Belafonte
121quotes
Harry Belafonte: A Life of Music, Activism, and Inspiration
Full Name and Common Aliases
Harry Edward Belafonte was born on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York. He is often referred to as "The King of Calypso" for his iconic contributions to the genre.
Birth and Death Dates
Belafonte's life spanned nearly a century, with his birth occurring on March 1, 1927. Unfortunately, he passed away on April 25, 2023, at the age of 96.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Belafonte was an American singer, actor, and activist. His voice and charisma captivated audiences worldwide, cementing his status as a legend in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Harlem, Belafonte's early life was marked by hardship and resilience. He faced racism and poverty but found solace in music and dance. This foundation would later propel him to international stardom. His parents, Matthew and Melvine Belafonte, instilled in him a strong sense of social justice, which would become a defining aspect of his career.
Major Accomplishments
Belafonte's impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. He released his first album, Calypso, in 1956, which became the first LP to sell over one million copies worldwide. This groundbreaking achievement not only showcased his talent but also paved the way for future generations of calypso musicians.
Notable Works or Actions
Throughout his illustrious career, Belafonte collaborated with some of the most iconic figures in music and film. He starred alongside Sidney Poitier in Island in the Sun (1953) and Carmen Jones (1954), demonstrating his versatility as an actor. Additionally, he was a founding member of the Civil Rights Congress, advocating for racial equality and social justice.
Impact and Legacy
Belafonte's influence extends far beyond his impressive body of work. He played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, using his platform to raise awareness about issues such as racism, poverty, and inequality. His commitment to activism has inspired countless individuals to become involved in their communities and fight for positive change.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Belafonte's legacy is multifaceted, making him a beloved figure among music lovers, activists, and fans of classic Hollywood films. His unwavering dedication to social justice and his enduring impact on the entertainment industry have cemented his place in history. As an artist and advocate, Belafonte continues to inspire new generations with his timeless wisdom: "We must all learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools."
As a renowned figure, Harry Belafonte's life serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and compassion. His remarkable journey reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we have the capacity to make a lasting difference through our passions and pursuits.
Quotes by Harry Belafonte
Harry Belafonte's insights on:
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Poverty was my mother's midwife. She had her children in poverty. But she also found a road to bring us a sense of purpose, and she taught us how to be valiant in the face of oppression.
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I don't think soldiers should be anywhere in the world. I mean, that is a moral and a basic philosophy. I think that the only way to end wars is to have no military and to find other ways in which - I think we should suspend all nuclear weapons.
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I call President Bush a terrorist. I call those around him terrorists as well: Condoleezza Rice, Rumsfeld, Gonzales in the Justice Department, and certainly Cheney.
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I think there's no city quite like New York, and I've seen most of the developed cities of the world. I admire this place, its energy. It's the repository of so much history and culture and diversity.
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I think New York City most represents what it is that America in general aspires to. It's big; it's dense. I've known this city from all of its social arcs. The best that's in America is yet to come. The worst that's in America is yet to come.
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All too often, I'm sorry to say, I relegated my family to the cracks and margins.
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One of the true pleasures of my life has been the work of John Steinbeck. He was one of the people who turned my life around. I had no direct relationship with him, unfortunately.
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John Steinbeck is one of the most under-discussed and under-written-about of all American writers. He is way up there and should stand on a par, or even above, Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner.
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When I was 20 and 30, my visions for what the world would be, all things were possible.
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Poverty is terror. Having your Social Security threatened is terror. Having your livelihood as an elderly person slowly disappearing with no replenishment is terror.
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