The Harlem Renaissance was an explosion of African- American creativity in the 1920’s and 30’s. Many black writers published poems, novels, and dramas during this time. Along with the writers, many artists also created new paintings and sculptures. Before the Harlem Renaissance, many black Americans were not published writers, nor well known artists, but this movement paved the way for them.

Harlem is located in New York City. Many African-Americans settled there during The Great Migration.

Duke Ellington Duke Ellington was a Jazz Composer

Louis Armstrong Louis Armstrong was a Jazz Composer

Bessie Smith was a Blues Singer. The Empress of The Blues

Jacob Lawrence was a painter

Langston Hughes Langston Hughes was a Poet who combined the experiences of African & American culture.

Dreams Hold fast to dreams For if dreams die Life is a broken-winged bird That cannot fly. Hold fast to dreams For when dreams go Life is a barren field Frozen with snow. – by Langston Hughes

The Harlem Renaissance The Harlem Renaissance was a time when African-American artists, writers and musicians based in Harlem revealed the freshness and variety of African-American culture. The popularity of the artists we just viewed spread to the rest of society.