1. Youngest Person to Receive an Academy Award

In 1935, at just six years old, Shirley Temple received a special Juvenile Academy Award. She remains the youngest person ever to receive an Oscar, highlighting her exceptional impact on the film industry at such a young age.

2. A Cocktail Named After Her

The non-alcoholic cocktail “Shirley Temple” was created in her honor. This popular drink, typically made with ginger ale, grenadine, and garnished with a maraschino cherry, was invented to give children a fun, sophisticated beverage to enjoy alongside adults

3. Role in Ending Segregation in Film

Shirley Temple broke racial barriers in Hollywood by performing with African-American actor Bill “Bojangles” Robinson. Their on-screen partnership in “The Little Colonel” (1935) was one of the first times an interracial dance team was featured in a major Hollywood production, setting a precedent for future films.

4. She Could Memorize Lines Quickly

Temple had an extraordinary ability to memorize lines. She could learn not only her own lines but also the lines of her co-stars. This remarkable skill helped her deliver flawless performances even at a very young age.

5. Invented the Dimple Pinch

To accentuate her famous dimples, Temple’s mother used to carefully style her hair and reportedly used a pin to ensure her dimples were prominent for the camera. This meticulous attention to her appearance became part of her signature look.

6. Diplomatic Career Highlights

After retiring from acting, Temple had a distinguished diplomatic career. As the U.S. Ambassador to Czechoslovakia, she played a significant role during the Velvet Revolution, a peaceful movement that led to the end of Communist rule in the country.