Impact on Paris Politically

Baker made a huge impact culturally in Paris by introducing Black culture to Paris society. Baker was a force to be reckoned with in the performing world, but she also made a significant impact in Paris politically. In September 1939, the French declared war on Nazi Germany, and Baker willingly joined and supported the country’s war effort. She joined the intelligence service and helped the French resistance (Kraut, 2008, pg 84). She used her talent and fame as a shield to collect information for the resistance group. She also used her celebrity travelling status to cover her true intentions when travelling to the United Kingdom( Library of Congress, 2021). During her voyage, she carried notes about the German military in invisible ink on her music sheets (Library of Congress,2021). During her time away, Baker would actively provide resources for many low-class citizens in Paris. Baker actively protected the less fortunate and used her privilege to help others (Malloryk, 2020). After the war was over, Baker was awarded and recognized for her impactful work during the war. Baker received the Croix de Guerre and the Rosette de la Résistance, a medal of honour for prestigious resistance work in France. Baker was also named Croix de Légion d’honneur, the highest order of merit for military and civil action (Malloryk, 2020). These distinguished awards that Baker received showcase her meaningful contribution to Paris’s political culture.