Ira Aldridge

Nineteenth century actor and playwright

Ira Aldridge was an American actor and playwright of African descent. He was born in 1807 in New York City and began his acting career in the 1820s. Aldridge was known for his performances in Shakespearean plays and was one of the first African Americans to perform in Europe. He was also a pioneer for African American actors and helped to pave the way for future generations.