The more you learn about these standout black people from the past, the more you understand they were just on a different level.
Joseph Bologne
TL:DW
Dude was born to a plantation owner and slave mother in Guadelupe.
His father took him to Paris because he wanted Joseph to be part of high society.
Joseph got into fencing and became the best fencer in France, losing only one match his entire time doing it.
After he basically proved he was unbeatable at fencing, he picked up the violin.
He became the best violinist in France and became first chair in Paris' big orchestra.
He started composing and wrote shit for violinists that you have to be a high level player to even attempt.
His work influenced Mozart.
He couldn't get married in high society, so he just fucked all the Nobelmen's wives behind their backs.
He became an equal rights advocate fighting on behalf of the black people in France.
The French Revolution broke out an he led a regiment of black soldiers in repelling the Austrian invasion despite having no military training.
He got thrown in jail and sentenced to death because he was once part of French high society.
The new French government pardoned him and he spent his last days playing at small symphony venues.
60-70% of his work was destroyed during the French Revolution when they were destroying everything associated with the nobility.
