Langston Hughes was one of the most prominent and influential African American poets of the 20th century and a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance. He was born in Joplin, Missouri, in 1902, and moved to Harlem, New York, as a young man. He quickly became a part of the city's vibrant cultural scene, where he met and befriended many other important figures of the period.
Hughes' poetry is known for its powerful and moving depictions of African American life, culture, and experience. He often wrote about the challenges and struggles faced by African Americans in a racially segregated America. At the same time, his work also celebrated the beauty and vitality of African American culture and identity.
Some of Hughes' most famous poems include "The Negro Speaks of Rivers," "Mother to Son," and "Harlem." His work has been translated into many languages and is still widely read today. Hughes also wrote plays, novels, and children's books. He died in New York City in 1967.