As a former veteran, Robinson fought for equal rights for Black soldiers during World War II and he lobbied for the hiring of the first Black policeman in Dallas. Robinson balked at critics calling him terms such as “Uncle Tom,” and broke many barriers onstage and in Hollywood by his sheer will and talent alone. Robinson’s first name was actually Luther.
Reportedly, he forced his brother, who was named Bill, to switch names with him as he hated his own. His nickname came from a term “jangler,” which was someone always causing mischief. Robinson was also known for his cheery disposition and his “Everything’s Copacetic” catchphrase.
Robinson starred in 14 Hollywood films, alongside stars of the time like Shirley Temple and others. Robinson was also the inspiration for a TV movie by late tap legend Gregory Hines in 2001.
A park in Harlem bears Robinson’s name and his birthday was established as National Tap Day via a joint congressional resolution in 1989. Robinson died at age of 71 on November 25, 1949.
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Little Known Black History Fact: Bill ‘Bojangles’ Robinson was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
