1. The Harlem Renaissance

2. The poets of this era revolutionized the African American contribution to American literature by introducing ghetto speech and the rhythms of jazz and blues into their verse

3. The Harlem Renaissance lasted a few short years but it threw African American writers fully into the center of attention.
Their talent and creativity was finally appreciated by the reading public in a new and exciting way.

4. The Harlem Renaissance was centered in New York City and provided a physical area where young black men and women could meet together as they forged a community of writers, musicians, and artists who changed the course of the arts in America

5. At its height, the Renaissance gave opportunities for young black artists to work by providing housing, financial stability, and emotional encouragement
Several literary magazines were founded and often provided cash awards for writing contests; these awards often allowed writers to have the means to pay their bills as they learned their craft

6. The Harlem Renaissance lost its force as the Great Depression deepened; many of the financial backers of the young artists lost their fortunes and as the money supply dwindled, the Renaissance died

7. The legacy of the Harlem Renaissance continues through today; it allowed black artists in all fields opportunities that would have taken many, many years in other circumstances
The Harlem Renaissance showed America and the world that black artists have a powerful and important voice to be heard