Ever wondered how Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington rose to stardom? Morgan Freeman, like many early African American actors, was born into a time of racial segregation and prejudice. Born in Memphis, Tennessee on June 1, 1937, Freeman experienced a rather turbulent childhood. His parents moved to Chicago when Freeman was still a child, hoping to find better work away from the oppressive hand of the racially-explosive South. As his father descended into alcoholism, Freeman’s parents separated and Freeman found himself moving frequently, splitting time between living with his grandparents in Mississippi and moving from town to town with his mother. Born into humble beginnings, Denzel Washington would become synonymous with powerful acting and creative expression throughout his career. From his early beginnings on the stage and in television, Washington would rise to be one of the most decorated actors of his era, earning numerous Oscar nominations and accolades. Washington courageously forged ahead to break down further racial barriers for a new generation of actors and served to inspire the next wave of African American artists. For more interesting facts you must read the biographies. Grab your biography books now!