Egbert Austin Williams was born on November 12, 1874 to parents Frederick and Julia in Nassau, the Bahamas. Due to an economic depression, the family decided to leave the Bahamas in 1884 and make a new home in Riverside, California. There young Bert became fascinated with medicine shows while his father was ambivalent about show business at first, but after watching his son delivering a confident spiel he knew Bert had a great talent. He later gained much success as an actor, comedian, playwright and recording artist. Bert Williams is not only a vital part of pop culture, but an inspiring figure in history. He was a man who against all odds had the perseverance to make it to the very top of his field. He patiently endured prejudice to lay the foundation for the many black performers to follow. His influence is extensive and his story is one that had to be included in the IA.