Black History: Langston Hughes

One of the great writers and thinkers of the Harlem Renaissance -- which helped lay the foundation for the battle for civil rights -- was the poet, novelist, columnist, and activist Langston Hughes. His words would help to inspire a movement for justice in America, as he celebrated black pride. The Harlem Renaissance, where African American art, literature and music flourished in Harlem, has been described as a "spiritual coming of age." At the same time, Hughes' works transcended race and spoke directly to the human spirit, earning him praise across many segments of American society.

Some of his most well-known works include The Weary Blues, The Ways of White Folks, The Big Sea, and A Pictorial History of the Negro in America. In one particular essay entitled "The Negro Artist and the Racial Mountain," Hughes wrote, "We younger Negro artists now intend to express our individual dark-skinned selves without fear or shame."

As we celebrate black history, Langston Hughes stands out as an inspirational figure that understood the power of words and used them to create a better America -- or more precisely, as he wrote himself, "Let America be the dream the dreamers dreamed." He influenced not only writers that have sprung up since the Harlem Renaissance, but also influenced political thinkers and leaders who were inspired by his message.

For more biographies in celebration of black history month, click here.