Langston Hughes is thought of to be one of the greatest African American poets to have ever lived. Langston wrote in an era that is known as the Harlem Renaissance. The Harlem Renaissance was an innovative time period during the 1920's in which African American performers, writers, and artists began to flourish in a section of New York City, called Harlem. During this time, African Americans were encouraged not to deny their histories and identities, but rather to celebrate their differences and heritage. During the Harlem Renaissance, Hughes managed to overcome hardships and become one of the premier writers of his time.
             Mr. James Langston Hughes was born on February 1, 1902, in the small town of Joplin, Missouri. As an African American, Hughes was a member of an abolitionist family. Ever since the 8th grade, Hughes had expressed interest poetry. While studying at Central High School in Cleveland, Ohio, Hughes was awarded the position of Class Poet. After high school, under his father's wishes, Hughes began studying engineering at Columbia University. Failing to gain any real interest in engineering, Hughes dropped that program after only a short time. Despite this however, Langston continued to avidly write poetry. Within no time, his first poem was published. The poem, entitled "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" is still one of his most famous today.
             Soon after his departure from Columbia University, Hughes discovered the lively streets of Harlem, New York. There, he became highly involved in the arts scene. Many historians say that from a literary point of view, Hughes became the strength and spirit of the Harlem Renaissance. While in Harlem, Langston began publishing much of his work in literary magazines such as Crisis, and Opportunity. After winning first place in an 1925 Opportunity Magazine literary contest, with his poem "The Weary Blues", Hughes started to become better kno...