Harlem Renaissance
By: Stacie Van Den Berg
Great Migration
The Great Migration was a movement of 6 million African Americans out of the rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and west that occurred between 1910 and 1970. African Americans migrated to escape the widespread racism of the South, to see out employment opportunities in urban environments, and to pursue what was widely perceived to be a "better life" in the North.
Period of Literary Activity
Harlem Renaissance became the period in which a group of talented black riders produced an extensive recognizable body of literature in the three outstanding categories of essay, poetry, and art.
Common Bond
The writers lived in a society with different values. Where little difference made big reactions. People that mattered would go unnoticed. Something that was common in their writings were there racial identity.
Racial Injustice
Helped them express their thoughts and stay true to their colors. African American culture was being spread and recognized. Talked about the struggles they faced during this time. Also talks about the joy as an African American but how it can be difficult.
1920's Generation
They were poor and showed racism. These writers had to write about what they went through and American were starting to see all the writings. They became interested.
Arna Bontemps
1902-1973, Alexandria, LA
Poetry: God Give to Men
Themes: Protest against social inequity, the decline in religious belief.
Most Famous: Story of the Negro
James Weldon Johnson
1871-1938, Jacksonville, FL
Poetry: The Creation
Themes: Fought for black rights
Most Famous: Along this way, The Harlem Renaissance
Countee Cullen
1903-1945, New York City, NY
Poetry: The Harlem Renaissance
Themes: Used poetry to fight for equality.
Most Famous: Caroling Dusk, One Way to Heaven
Zora Neale Hurston
1891-1960, Notasulga, AL
Writer: Short stories, articles novels
Themes: African American Culture
Most Famous: The Eyes Were Watching God
Georgia Douglas Johnson
1880-1966, Atlanta, GA
Poetry: The Crisis
Themes: She was one of the most known writers during this time
Most Famous: An Autumn Love Cycle
Billie Holiday
1915-1959, Philadelphia, PA
Musician: created jazz music standards
Music: Broke down barriers
Most Famous: Miss Brown to You