Literature

From rhymes to rhythm of speech, from poetry to prose, from short sentences to short stories, African American/Black writings have made rich contributions to the world's history. From slave narratives to novels, African Americans/Blacks have graced the U.S. and the world with magnificent pieces of literature. Oral traditions, folktales, and books are all part of the broad range of literarary contributions made by African Americans/Blacks to the United States and the world.

The Harlem Renaissance provided a beacon of pride for black writers and poets during a time of racial degradation in the U.S. This Renaissance produced renowned authors such as Jean Toomer, Langston Hughes and Gwendolyn Brooks, with Brooks achieving a Pulitzer Prize in 1950.

Alex Haley's Roots not only captured the history of the African American/Black family, but introduced the world to one of the greatest writers of all times.

Authors such as Arna Bontemps, Phillis Wheatly, Nikki Giovanni and Maya Angelou are only a few of those who have made contributions to the spectacular genre of literature produced by African Americans/Blacks.