top of page

Josephine Baker

The Showgirl Who Spied for the French Resistance

Josephine Baker wasn’t just a global superstar; during World War II, she became a brave spy for the French Resistance, using her fame and charm to fight against the Nazis. Here are some exciting facts about her heroic role as a secret agent:


From Stage to Spy
Known for her dazzling performances and sultry dances, Josephine Baker was a beloved entertainer in France. But when World War II broke out, she traded her glamorous life for one of intrigue and danger. As a spy for the French Resistance, she used her celebrity status to gather intelligence and support the war effort.


Smuggling Secrets in Sheet Music
Baker’s fame gave her access to high-profile parties and events where she mingled with military officials, collecting valuable information. She would then smuggle the intel out of occupied territories in the most unexpected ways—by writing coded messages in her sheet music or pinning secret notes to her undergarments!


Fearless and Fabulous
Baker was fearless in her missions, traveling across Europe and North Africa to help the Resistance. Whether she was attending diplomatic functions or sneaking messages between countries, her charm and fame made it easier for her to slip past suspicion.


A Medal-Winning Hero
After the war, Baker was recognized for her incredible service. She was awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Rosette de la Résistance by the French government, as well as being made a Chevalier of the Légion d'Honneur, France’s highest honor.

ADVERTISEMENTS

facts.png
FACTS YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN
Why the Middle Finger Is Such an Old Insult
HISTORY & INNOVATIONS

Why the Middle Finger Is Such an Old Insult

Homes That Outsmarted the Tax Collector
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Homes That Outsmarted the Tax Collector

Why Most Orange Cats Are Boys
SCIENCE & NATURE

Why Most Orange Cats Are Boys

Cleopatra’s Breath Might Be in Your Lungs Right Now
SCIENCE & NATURE

Cleopatra’s Breath Might Be in Your Lungs Right Now

From Awkward Moment to Medical Marvel
HISTORY & INNOVATIONS

From Awkward Moment to Medical Marvel

Did Avocado Toast Really Ruin Millennials’ Housing Dreams?
FOOD & DRINK

Did Avocado Toast Really Ruin Millennials’ Housing Dreams?

ADVERTISEMENT

popular.png
POPULAR NOW
Photograph of the original constitution
HISTORY & INNOVATIONS

Organizations That Support Peace

Image of camel with Google camera in the desert
SCIENCE & NATURE

When Google Used A Camel to Map the Desert

Photograph of a lamb
SCIENCE & NATURE

How Ranchers Know When Sheep Have Mated (Without Guessing)

Painting of the The Charge of The Light Brigade
HISTORY & INNOVATIONS

Before it Was Cozy, It Was Controversial

FOOD & DRINK

Ice Made the Cocktail Possible

Image of futuristic tech cube
SCIENCE & NATURE

The Spark That Launched San Francisco's Tech Scene

ADVERTISEMENT

bottom of page