Births on March 9

Edwin Forrest, American actor and philanthropist (d. 1872)

Edwin Forrest, born on March 9, 1806, and passing on December 12, 1872, stood as one of the preeminent American Shakespearean actors of the nineteenth century. In an era when theatrical stars held immense public sway, Forrest's powerful, athletic, and distinctly American style of acting captivated audiences across the nation. His formidable presence on stage, however, was matched only by the tempestuous rivalry he shared with the British tragedian William Macready, a professional and personal feud that escalated dramatically to ignite the infamous and deadly Astor Place Riot of 1849, a pivotal and tragic event in American cultural history that underscored deep social and nationalistic divisions.

A Titan of the American Stage

In the vibrant theatrical landscape of the 19th century, Edwin Forrest carved out a legendary career, becoming synonymous with powerful, passionate performances of Shakespearean roles. Unlike many of his more restrained European counterparts, Forrest's acting style was often described as robust, physically imposing, and intensely emotional – a style that resonated deeply with the burgeoning American identity of the time. He embodied heroes with a raw masculinity, often playing roles like Othello, Lear, and Hamlet, cementing his status as a beloved national icon. His performances weren't just entertainment; they were cultural events, drawing immense crowds and sparking fervent discussions about art and identity within 19th-century American theater.

The Fateful Feud with William Macready

The stage was set for a dramatic clash of titans when Forrest's career intersected with that of William Macready, a distinguished and celebrated British actor. Their rivalry wasn't merely a professional competition; it evolved into a bitter, personal antagonism fueled by differing acting styles, national pride, and perceived slights on both sides of the Atlantic. Macready, known for a more refined and intellectual approach to Shakespeare, often found himself at odds with Forrest's more demonstrative style. This simmering animosity reached a boiling point in the spring of 1849, particularly during their overlapping engagements in New York City.

The Astor Place Riot: A National Tragedy

The culmination of the Forrest-Macready feud erupted into one of the deadliest civil disturbances in American history: the Astor Place Riot. On May 10, 1849, a mob, largely composed of working-class "Bowery Boys" who championed Forrest as a symbol of American ruggedness against what they perceived as British aristocratic pretension embodied by Macready, gathered outside the Astor Place Opera House. Macready was scheduled to perform Macbeth that evening. What began as a protest swiftly devolved into a violent confrontation with the state militia and police. The tragic outcome was devastating, with at least 22 and possibly as many as 34 people killed, and numerous others injured. The riot laid bare the deep class divisions and anti-British sentiment prevalent in New York City at the time, transforming a theatrical rivalry into a bloody symbol of social unrest.

Legacy of Edwin Forrest

Despite the shadow cast by the Astor Place Riot, Edwin Forrest continued to perform for many years, maintaining his status as a revered figure in American theatre until his death. He remains an indelible part of America's cultural tapestry, not only for his groundbreaking acting but also for the way his career intersected with significant social and historical currents of the 19th century. The Forrest Home for Retired Actors, established through his will, further cemented his lasting philanthropic legacy in the theatrical community.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edwin Forrest

Who was Edwin Forrest?

Edwin Forrest (1806–1872) was a highly influential and prominent American Shakespearean actor of the 19th century, known for his powerful and distinctly American acting style on the stage.

What was the Astor Place Riot?

The Astor Place Riot was a deadly civil disturbance that occurred in New York City on May 10, 1849. It stemmed from a bitter rivalry between American actor Edwin Forrest and British actor William Macready, escalating into violence between their respective supporters and authorities, resulting in many fatalities and highlighting social tensions.

Who was William Macready?

William Macready was a celebrated British tragedian and contemporary of Edwin Forrest. His more refined acting style and perceived aristocratic demeanor stood in contrast to Forrest's robust approach, leading to a professional and nationalistic rivalry that tragically culminated in the Astor Place Riot.

When did Edwin Forrest live?

Edwin Forrest lived from March 9, 1806, to December 12, 1872, making him a significant figure in 19th-century American theatre history.