Katherine Dunham was an influential American dancer, choreographer, and anthropologist, born on June 22, 1909, in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She is best known for her pioneering work in bringing African and Caribbean dance forms to the American stage. Dunham founded the Katherine Dunham Company, which showcased her innovative choreography and helped to elevate the status of dance as an art form. In addition to her dance career, Dunham conducted extensive research on the cultural practices of the Caribbean and African communities. Her studies informed her choreography and led to the creation of several notable works, including the ballet "Stormy Weather." Dunham's contributions have had a lasting impact on both dance and cultural anthropology.