1947 Freedom Train Mayor's Committee Pinback Button.

Paul Robeson and "Freedom Train" In 1947, the American Heritage Foundation prepared a plan to have the original copy of the Declaration of Independence and other significant historical documents tour the United States on a special train entitled the "freedom train." Although this project was endorsed by President Truman and sponsored by the Attorney General of the U. S., the American Heritage Foundation refused to guarantee the exhibition would not be segregated. Langston Hughes, the internationally renowned poet, responded to the outrage felt by the African-American community about the contradictions evident in an exhibit emphasizing constitutional ideals of freedom and justice which was touring a society w legal segregation was a daily occurrence. Hughes' poem "Freedom Train" was the result, and Paul Robeson soon recorded the piece. Robeson recited "Freedom Train" many times at his concerts, and it was a staple of his public performances up through 1960. 1 1/4" pinback badge.

Item ID: HRN147