Blackface

[L Verge]

I think this is a problem that will only be solved over time as older generations who were raised not really realizing that certain people would be offended by certain things die off and, hopefully, a kinder and better educated citizenry takes its place. We can only hope and also pray that some good history is preserved - such as the rich legacy of minstrel shows that contributed to the overall role of theater arts in general. The great Victorian and silent film actor, Joe Jefferson (better known as Rip Van Winkle) began his career at age four here in Washington, D.C. as a minstrel in blackface. His "starring role" had him climbing out of a sack and performing an early version of a later hit - The Shadow Dance.