langston hughes 1902-1967
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Langston Hughes
1902-1967
“The Shakespeare of Harlem”
Born in Joplin, Missouri, James Langston Hughes was a member of an abolitionist family.
He was raised primarily by his grandmother.
Father abandoned his family due to racist conditions in the United States; moved to Cuba, then Mexico
Designated as class poet in grammar school:
"I was a victim of a stereotype. There were only two of us Negro kids in the whole class and our English teacher was always stressing the importance of rhythm in poetry. Well, everyone knows — except us — that all Negroes have rhythm, so they elected me as class poet."
SCHOOL Langston’s father offered to pay tuition if Langston
studied engineering and not writing at Columbia University
While at Columbia in 1921, Hughes managed to maintain a B+ grade average
He left in 1922 because of racial prejudice
His interests revolved more around the neighborhood of Harlem than his studies, though
he continued writing poetry
Hughes received a B.A. degree from Lincoln University in 1929
Received a Litt. D. in 1943 from Lincoln. A second honorary doctorate was awarded to
him in 1963 by Howard University
He was a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
HUGHES’ FIRST VOLUME OF POETRY WAS THE WEARY BLUES, PUBLISHED IN 1926.
HARLEM RENAISSANCE
Also known as the “New Negro Movement”
Centered in Harlem, NY during the 1920’s and 1930’s
THE HARLEM RENAISSANCE: Challenged White paternalism and
racism Celebrated Black dignity and creativity Was a flourishing of African American
art:Literature
MusicVisual Art
DanceDrama
“Harlem”
Though he remained closeted during his life, Hughes was homosexual.
Avoided “coming out” to retain respect of Black churches, as well as to ensure further profit from his publications.
Langston passed away on May 22, 1967 at the age of 65, due to complications during an
abdominal surgery.
BIBLIOGRAPHY http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Langston_Hughes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyqwvC5s
4n8 http
://encarta.msn.com/media_461535464_761566483
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