Eartha Kitt was an international singing star who distinguished herself in music, film, television, theater, and cabaret. She was also a committed social activist.
Known for her feline charisma and highly distinctive vocal style, she had risen from extreme poverty to become one of the great entertainers of the 1950s and '60s. But while her sultry voice made her famous, the entertainment industry would punish her for actually speaking her mind. Furthermore, the Central Intelligence Agency embarked on a smear campaign that effectively exiled the singer from US soil for a decade. So, what did Eartha Kitt say that provoked such a cruel backlash from the establishment?
Click through the following gallery and find out more about this unique American singer and actress.