Anna Held: A Biography

This thesis, a biography of the French actress, Anna Held (1873-1918), is an attempt to place her in proper perspective in American history. Essentially a record of Miss Held from birth to death, it highlights many events that made her famous. Included are examples of publicity generated by her manager-husband, Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr. Much credit can be awarded Ziegfeld for his expertise in publicity stunts and promotion. Undue praise, however, has been attributed to him for the origin of the Ziegfeld Follies and the success of Anna Held. Anna was a Continental success long before she met him. His promotion introduced her to the American public, but her prodding and financing made Ziegfeld and the Follies a success. Through the years the name Anna Held has almost been forgotten. The research was contingent upon examination of primary source material in Los Angeles, New York and Cambridge, Massachusetts. The eighty-five year old surviving daughter of the famous actress graciously consented to interviews that proved indispensable to the research. The research methodology involved assemblage of material, including news clippings, articles and books. The fortunate personal contact provided a clearing house for verifying or disaffirming information. As a famous personality, the truth about Anna Held is hidden in the legend. Her daughter, Liane Carrera, has suggested that this treatise be titled: What They Said About Anna Held