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Emperor Jones

    A colorful poster advertises the 1933 film Emperor Jones. The poster displays five images of Robeson at the various stages of his character’s rise as a corrupt dictator. Four of the images revolve around Robson dressed in a red and gold military uniform, with gold shoulder epaulettes evocative of the era of Napoleon Bonaparte.

    Paul Robeson showcased his acting and singing talents in the 1933 film version of Eugene O’Neil’s stage play Emperor Jones. This was the O’Neil play best suited to Robeson’s artistry.

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    Attribution/Credit

    Poster dated 1933, photo by John L. Puckett; permission to photograph in Paul Robeson House & Museum courtesy of West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance