The Harlem Renaissance: A Huge Arts Movement

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What was it? The Harlem renaissance was a huge arts movement started by the African-American community of Harlem in the 1920’s. In a time where race riots and lynchings were nothing out of the ordinary, a professional artist of any sort was not considered a legitimate career choice for an African-American person. The Harlem renaissance was a movement that helped to bring forth talented black people and also to create positivity and creativity in a time of great turmoil.

Who was it? There were many people who were part of the Harlem renaissance, however, some who are more known include Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, Claude McKay, W.E.B DuBois, Eubie Blake, Duke Ellington, Aaron Douglas, and James Weldon Johnson.

Where did it take place?
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The events that took place in Harlem inspired many neighbouring cities to partake in the boom of the African-American art scene.

When did it happen? As previously stated, the Harlem Renaissance started in the 1920’s and lasted until the beginning of the great depression; however, many writers and other artists continued to create and publish throughout the depression.

Why did it happen? The Harlem renaissance was a huge boom of culture in an era where racist people viewed African-Americans as untalented and worthless people who could not thrive off of careers as professional artists. The Harlem renaissance was not only a chance to prove to a racist America that black people could in fact be talented but was also a chance to showcase the talent and hard work of the black community. Many also say that the Harlem renaissance was a peaceful protest against the oppressors (example the

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