U.S. Ambassador and Child Stars Of the 20th Century, has Died Pic Story

  Shirley Temple Black, who was one of the most iconic child stars of the 20th century, has died. She was 85.Temple Black died of natural causes Monday at her home in Woodside
The dimpled actress found fame at the height of the Great Depression in movies including "Heidi," "Curly Top" and "Bright Eyes" and later served as U.S. ambassador to Ghana and Czechoslovakia.

"She was surrounded by her family and caregivers," a statement released by her family said. "We salute her for a life of remarkable achievements as an actor, as a diplomat, and... our beloved mother, grandmother [and] great-grandmother

Born in Santa Monica, Calif., in April 1928, Temple Black was enrolled in dance school at the age of three.

After a number of bit parts she stole the show with her rendition of “Baby Take a Bow” in her first feature film, "Stand Up and Cheer."

Audiences around the world flocked to see her in films such as "Curly Top," "The Little Colonel" and "The Littlest Rebel." Licensed merchandise including dolls, dishes, and clothing also capitalized on her wholesome image.

Temple Black was the top box-office draw for four years in a row between 1935 and 1938. She won a special Academy Award in early 1935 for her "outstanding contribution to screen entertainment" in the previous year.