Miriam Makeba

South African singer-activist who weaponized music against apartheid

Miriam Makeba (1932–2008), known as Mama Africa, became a global symbol of resistance through songs like Pata Pata and her 1967 UN speech against apartheid. Her cultural impact included:

• First African artist to win Grammy Award (1966)
• Testified before UN about Sharpeville Massacre
• 28-year political exile from South Africa

Makeba's music-activism fusion inspired global anti-apartheid movements. She demonstrated how art could challenge oppressive regimes while preserving indigenous musical traditions.