On April 23, 1928, Shirley Temple Black entered the world in Santa Monica, California, destined to become the most famous child performer in Hollywood history. From her first film role at age three to becoming America’s top box office draw by six, Shirley’s journey would captivate a nation struggling through the Great Depression and leave an indelible mark on entertainment history.

Shirley Temple rose to fame at just six years old through her outstanding role in “Stand Up and Cheer!”. The public instantly fell in love with the six-year-old Shirley Temple through her dazzling looks and exceptional singing and dancing skills. The studio almost collapsed into bankruptcy until 20th Century Fox recognized Shirley Temple as their most profitable treasure, who rescued the production company from financial failure during a difficult period of American film. Her signature song, “On the Good Ship Lollipop” from “Bright Eyes”, became the anthem of a generation desperate for joy.

During the darkest years of the Great Depression, Shirley Temple became more than just an entertainer; she represented hope. Parents scraping together nickels and dimes would treat their children to her movies as a rare bright spot in difficult times. The “Shirley Temple effect” spawned an entire merchandise industry, from dolls and dresses to coloring books and tableware. Even a non-alcoholic cocktail was created in her honor, which remains popular today.

At age 22, Shirley decided to stop acting but went on to create noteworthy achievements. She became a thriving businesswoman in her 30s before starting a successful diplomatic career. The United States appointed her as its Ambassador to Ghana and then to Czechoslovakia, making her a pioneering female diplomat in American diplomatic history. She fought breast cancer and then used her platform to promote cancer awareness efforts as she worked towards removing the societal stigma around public discussion of the disease.