The Harlem Renaissance took place after World War One until the mid 1930s. It was a movement in literature, art music, and kindled a new African American cultural identity. Many whites became fascinated with the world of Harlem, and sought out black writers. Many of these authors wrote books of realism on the topic of black life the ghetto, and racial inequality. One of the most famous of these writers was Langston Hughes, a famous poet and social activist who is credited with being one of the first "jazz poets" who focused on the life and struggles of African Americans. The Harlem Renaissance encouraged lots of black writers, however many of them were ignored at the end of the Renaissance in the 1930's, near the start of World War Two. Many black authors regained popularity during the Civil Rights Movement.
Many Harlem artists gained inspiration from African masks, and other types of African art by creating abstract and avant-garde paintings and sculptures that brought into light the African culture that was often ,misunderstood by whites, in a new light.
The Renaissance also became a musical era of blues and jazz, with artists such as Alberta Hunter, Bessie Smith, Clara Smith, and Ma Rainey, whom had until recently been unknown gaining attention and fame. The music often expressed longings and emotions, and were written in the perspective of the black working class. Famous jazz musicians and soloists emerged, including the most remembered, Louis Armstrong. This type of music later migrated and gained popularity in Chicago from New York City.
Although black culture was embraced by both blacks and whites during this time period, racism still was still very prevelent. Interest waned in racial matters the years of World War Two, and would not comeback until the Civil Rights movements several years later.
Sources:
http://www.britannica.com/event/Harlem-Renaissance-American-literature-and-art
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/jimcrow/stories_events_harlem.html
The Harlem Renaissance seemed to be the time in which many African Americans were able to reinvent themselves and adopt and form a new culture among themselves as Americans. They found more liberties in the Northern states, and many went into poetry and writing, music and plays. I find it interesting that it civil rights movement were still to be found, but progress as American society advanced, was growing.
ReplyDeleteCultural events like the Harlem Renaissance seem to have an impact on society as well. I like how you made the connection between the Renaissance and the Civil Rights movement yet to come.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post because according to the information that you provided, I learned that this was one of the ways that African Americans go to experience American Culture and be a part of the American Society.
ReplyDeleteI feel that the Harlem Renaissance not only allowed the African Americans bring in their own culture in America, but it also created bonds. By bonds I mean that there were white folks were fascinated by the poems, books, and art that the African Americans created. I feel that this would allow the white folks to understand what the African American culture is about and that their stereotypes are not true.
ReplyDeleteI like that you go in depth about various parts of the Harlem Renaissance. I think that although it had not changed the sociopolitical issues in America or resolved issues that African Americans faces, it gave many writers and artists a voice and a creative outlet. It caused a resurgence of empowerment within the African American community. Great Article!
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