Langston Hughes: Voice of a Time and a People In 20th century America, the oppression facing African-Americans is possibly the most controversial and historical ever. The constant battle they have fought is voiced clearly in the works produced by African-American authors, poets, artists and musicians during and prior to the Civil Rights Movement, particularly in a period known as the Harlem Renaissance. The voice that perhaps rang the truest among all people is that of …showed first 75 words of 1515 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1515 total…Countee Cullen- Hughes refused to differentiate between his personal experience and the common experience of black America. He wanted to tell the stories of his people without personalizing them, so the reader could step in and draw his own conclusions.’” (Longman) In all, Hughes’ work is a clear reflection of his peoples’ feelings during the 20th century. His voice speaks volumes for the conditions of the time, as well as what African-Americans hoped and dreamed.