ラウル・カスティージョのインスタグラム(raulcastillo) - 2月4日 02時10分

This is some inspiring history right here. Thanks @vbernal84 for making me aware of this post. #Repost @worthybeings with @repostapp
・・・
Gather around, it's time for a bedtime story.
MEET IRA ALDRIDGE (1807-1867), a dope ass actor from the 1800's with a mean gangsta lean to match. *see picture*

Ira received international acclaim for his theatrical performances throughout England, Scotland, Ireland, & United States.
Born a free man in New York City in 1807, Aldridge started acting early in his life. He took his talent to African Free School (NYC) to continue his training.

Ira realized that if he really wanted to be successful as an actor, he'd have to leave the staunch racism of the US. So in 1824, he rolled out and went to England.
Like all inspirational beings, Ira started from the bottom, working his way up the acting ranks. He started out as an understudy and saw more creative opportunities open up. By 1825, he starred in his first role as Oroonoko in The Revolt of Surinam in the Coburg Theatre (London). Although considered a fine performance, he was met with racial backlash from the media. Of course, haters gotta hate. But he pressed on... Eventually, Ira landed lead roles in various Shakespearean works such as Othello, Richard III, & Macbeth, and continued to act until his death in 1867.
While his performances earned him many rewards and fame, his greatest contribution, in our opinion, is his use of his platform to speak out against slavery. Ira contributed financially to abolitionist causes and incorporated songs of freedom into his performances.

Shout out to Ira Aldridge for trailblazing the road less travelled and having the guts to do something different. (source: bio.com + Africana Encyclopedia Vol 1)

#whoyougonbe #worthybeings #blackhistoryisworldhistory

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