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Bert Williams, American Vaudevillian

Egbert Austin (Bert) Williams (November 12, 1874 - March 4, 1922) was one of the pre-eminent entertainers of the Vaudeville era and one of the most popular comedians for all audiences of his time. In an age when racial inequality and stereotyping were commonplace, he became the first black American to take a lead role on the Broadway stage, and did much to push back racial barriers during his career. Fellow vaudevillian W.C. Fields, who appeared in productions with Williams, described him as "the funniest man I ever saw - and the saddest man I ever knew." Brent Richard, 1935-43 (cropped and cleaned).
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Title:
Bert Williams, American Vaudevillian
Caption:
Egbert Austin (Bert) Williams (November 12, 1874 - March 4, 1922) was one of the pre-eminent entertainers of the Vaudeville era and one of the most popular comedians for all audiences of his time. In an age when racial inequality and stereotyping were commonplace, he became the first black American to take a lead role on the Broadway stage, and did much to push back racial barriers during his career. Fellow vaudevillian W.C. Fields, who appeared in productions with Williams, described him as "the funniest man I ever saw - and the saddest man I ever knew." Brent Richard, 1935-43 (cropped and cleaned).
Personalities:
Credit:
Album / Science Source / NYPL/Schomburg Center
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Image size:
4055 x 5400 px | 62.6 MB
Print size:
34.3 x 45.7 cm | 13.5 x 18.0 in (300 dpi)
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