Paul Robeson Addresses the Welsh people at the National Eisteddfod of Wales, August 4, 1958

From the Geoff Charles Collection held at the National Library of Wales, Creative Archive License -- May be used for non-commercial and educational purposes

On August 4, 1958, Paul Robeson—renowned US singer, actor, communist and civil rights activist—delivered a deeply moving address at the National Eisteddfod of Wales in Ebbw Vale. This event marked a powerful moment of solidarity between Robeson and the Welsh people, particularly the South Wales miners with whom he had long-standing ties.

Robeson and his wife Eslanda were invited as honored guests to the Eisteddfod, a major cultural festival celebrating Welsh language, music, and arts. He was presented with a Welsh hymn book, a gesture recognizing his spiritual and cultural connection to Wales.

He spoke of the importance of his Welsh links: "You have shaped my life - I have learned from you."

Robeson had previously been barred from international travel by the US government due to his political activism. In 1957, he famously sang to Welsh miners via transatlantic telephone. By 1958, his passport had been restored, allowing him to visit in person.

Robeson’s connection to Wales was forged through his support for the miners during their struggles in the 1930s and 1940s. He saw parallels between their fight for dignity and the civil rights movement in the U.S. His presence at the Eisteddfod was not just ceremonial—it was a reaffirmation of shared values across borders.

To learn more about Robeson see: Music and Resistance -- In Honour of Paul Robeson's Birthday