A Nigerian in Warsaw
August Agbola O’Browne, a Nigerian immigrant living in Warsaw, Poland, found himself caught in the chaos of World War II. A jazz drummer by profession, he had moved to Poland in the 1920s and built a life there.
Joining the Resistance
When the Nazis invaded Poland in 1939, O’Browne joined the Polish resistance. Using his language skills and knowledge of the city, he became a valuable member of the underground movement, helping to smuggle weapons and messages.
Surviving the Warsaw Uprising
During the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, O’Browne fought bravely alongside Polish fighters. Despite being wounded, he continued to resist the German forces, earning respect for his courage and determination.
A Unique Figure in History
O’Browne is the only recorded and verified Black participant in the Warsaw Uprising. While others may have been involved, his story is the one documented by historians, making him a unique and significant figure in the history of the uprising.
August Agbola O’Browne, a Nigerian jazz drummer in Warsaw, became an unexpected hero during WWII. He joined the Polish resistance and fought in the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, standing out as the only recorded Black participant.🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/02b6PgOBRw
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) March 5, 2025