Background: Harlem Renaissance

The Harlem Renaissance lasted from about 1918 to the 1930s. Primarily, it was a literary movement. This was the first time African American literature and art attracted significant public attention and was taken seriously by mainstream publishers and critics.

Some elements of the Renaissance were an interest in the roots and heritage of African Americans as well as striving to achieve political and social equality. Another element was its diversity, there being 16 writers and dozens of artists.

For the artists, this time represented the opportunity to give artistic expression to the African American experience. Some African Americans wanted to use this opportunity to fight stereotypes while others wanted to express themselves freely regardless of what others thought.