The Harlem Renaissance was an important time in American history when Black artists and thinkers created amazing works of art and literature. But it wasn’t just about art; it was also a period of strong political activism and intellectual discussions among Black leaders. This article explores the political side of the Harlem Renaissance, focusing on the contributions of key figures and organizations that helped shape the movement.
In the early 20th century, life was tough for Black Americans, even in the northern United States. Although over a million Black people moved to northern cities, they still faced systemic racism and economic challenges. Many artists had to work in low-paying and dangerous jobs to make ends meet. The Harlem Renaissance was not only a cultural explosion but also a response to these difficult living conditions.
A big part of the Harlem Renaissance was the rise of the “New Negro.” This term described a new generation of Black individuals who rejected the gradual approach to civil rights advocated by leaders like Booker T. Washington. Washington believed in focusing on vocational training and economic self-sufficiency. However, Northern activists like A. Philip Randolph and economist Chandler Owen wanted a more direct approach to achieving political equality and voting rights for Black Americans.
In 1917, Randolph and Owen expressed the goals of the New Negro in their publication, highlighting the need for labor protections and economic opportunities for Black Americans.
During the Harlem Renaissance, several important organizations were established to fight for Black liberation. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), founded in 1909, and the National Urban League, established in 1911, played central roles in grassroots activism. Leaders like James Weldon Johnson and Eugene K. Jones worked hard to combat discrimination and promote civil rights.
The NAACP achieved significant victories, such as the Buchanan v. Worley case, which overturned discriminatory housing laws. Additionally, historian Carter G. Woodson started Negro History Week in 1926, which eventually became Black History Month.
Among the various organizations, the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) was the largest and most militant. Founded by Marcus Garvey in Jamaica in 1914, the UNIA aimed to promote Black nationalism and economic independence. Garvey’s idea of Pan-Africanism emphasized the unity of people of African descent worldwide in their fight against oppression.
Garvey’s approach was different from that of the NAACP and the National Urban League. He advocated for Black separatism and the creation of a nation-state in Africa. His charismatic leadership and public speaking attracted significant support from the Black working class, especially in Harlem.
Marcus Garvey’s influence went far beyond his time. He is credited with coining the phrase “Black is beautiful” and played a crucial role in the development of the Rastafarian movement and the Black Power movement. Despite his controversial views and the eventual collapse of the UNIA after his deportation in 1927, Garvey’s legacy continues to be important in discussions about race and identity today.
The Harlem Renaissance was a transformative period that combined artistic expression with political activism. While there were different opinions on the best ways to achieve civil rights, the collective efforts of artists, intellectuals, and activists during this time laid the groundwork for future movements. Through their work, Black Americans asserted their right to equality and dignity, shaping the cultural and political landscape of the nation.
Research key events and figures of the Harlem Renaissance, focusing on both cultural and political milestones. Create a timeline that highlights these events, including the founding of organizations like the NAACP and the UNIA, as well as significant artistic achievements. Present your timeline to the class, explaining how each event contributed to the movement.
Divide into two groups and prepare for a debate on the approaches to civil rights advocated by Booker T. Washington and A. Philip Randolph. One group will argue in favor of Washington’s focus on vocational training and economic self-sufficiency, while the other will support Randolph’s call for direct political action and voting rights. Use historical evidence to support your arguments.
Select a poem from a Harlem Renaissance poet, such as Langston Hughes or Claude McKay. Analyze the poem’s themes, language, and cultural significance. Discuss how the poem reflects the political and social issues of the time. Share your analysis with the class, highlighting the connection between art and activism during the Harlem Renaissance.
Conduct a research project on Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA). Explore Garvey’s ideas on Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism, and examine his impact on later movements like the Rastafarian and Black Power movements. Present your findings in a multimedia presentation, incorporating images, quotes, and videos.
Organize an art exhibit featuring works from Harlem Renaissance artists. Research artists such as Aaron Douglas and Augusta Savage, and create replicas or digital presentations of their work. Include descriptions of each piece and explain how the art reflects the themes of the Harlem Renaissance. Invite classmates and teachers to view the exhibit and discuss the cultural significance of the artwork.
Harlem – A neighborhood in New York City that became a cultural center for African Americans during the early 20th century, particularly known for its role in the Harlem Renaissance. – During the 1920s, Harlem was the epicenter of a cultural explosion that celebrated African American art, music, and literature.
Renaissance – A period of revival or renewed interest in art, literature, and learning, often associated with the European Renaissance from the 14th to the 17th century, but also applicable to other cultural revivals like the Harlem Renaissance. – The Harlem Renaissance was a pivotal moment in history, showcasing the talents and creativity of African American artists and writers.
Negro – An outdated term once commonly used to describe African Americans, particularly during the early 20th century; now considered offensive and replaced by terms like African American or Black. – In his writings, W.E.B. Du Bois often discussed the challenges faced by the Negro community in striving for equality.
Activism – The practice of taking direct action to achieve political or social goals, often associated with movements for civil rights and social justice. – The activism of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s led to significant changes in laws and attitudes towards racial equality.
Equality – The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities; a fundamental principle in social justice movements. – The fight for racial equality was a central theme of the Civil Rights Movement, inspiring countless individuals to join the cause.
Culture – The beliefs, customs, arts, and institutions of a particular society, group, or time period, often reflected in its literature and history. – The rich culture of the Harlem Renaissance included jazz music, poetry, and visual arts that celebrated African American identity.
History – The study of past events, particularly in human affairs, often recorded in written documents, artifacts, and oral traditions. – Understanding history is crucial for learning from past mistakes and shaping a better future.
Literature – Written works, especially those considered to have artistic or intellectual value, including novels, plays, and poetry. – The literature of the Harlem Renaissance, such as the works of Langston Hughes, explored themes of racial pride and identity.
Garvey – Referring to Marcus Garvey, a prominent Jamaican political leader, publisher, and activist known for his Pan-Africanism and the Back-to-Africa movement. – Marcus Garvey’s speeches and writings inspired a sense of pride and unity among African descendants worldwide.
Discrimination – The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, or gender. – The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a landmark legislation aimed at ending discrimination in public places and employment.
