Born in 1911, Independence Missouri, Ginger Rogers endured a troubled childhood with the divorce of her parents, repeated kidnappings by her father and time with grandparents, until her mom earned enough to care for her. An American icon best known for her performances opposite Fred Astaire in the 1930’s, this magical dance team captivated audiences for generations. With all the numerous rehearsals and even more takes, Astaire said that Ginger Rogers was the only girl who never cried. Although many considered her his partner, some have argued that Astaire needed Rogers more than she needed him. "I did everything he did, but backwards and in high heels”, Rogers is quoted as saying. This exceptional woman also exceled at both sculpting and painting. Credit for Ginger’s success must be shared with her intelligent and most determined mother, Leila Rogers, who managed her daughter’s career. Together, the two women made the most of every opportunity that came their way.