Historical Context of Harlem Renaissance Poems:

The poems “Incident” by Countee Cullen (1925) and “If We Must Die” by Claude McKay (1919) were written during the Harlem Renaissance, a significant cultural and artistic movement that flourished in Harlem, New York City, between the 1910s and the mid-1930s. To understand these poems fully, let’s explore the historical context of this era:

The Great Migration:

• A mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to urban centers in the North, including Harlem, took place between 1916 and 1970. This migration was fueled by several factors, including:
  • Seeking economic opportunities and escaping racial discrimination in the South.
  • Desire for better education and cultural experiences for African Americans.

Rise of Racial Tensions:

• Despite migrating North, African Americans continued to face prejudice and discrimination in housing, employment, and social interactions.
• Segregated neighborhoods and limited job opportunities created frustration and a sense of injustice.

The “New Negro” Movement:

• The Harlem Renaissance emerged within this context. It was a response to the social and racial realities of the time and aimed to:
  • Celebrate African American culture and heritage.
  • Challenge negative stereotypes and portray the diversity of Black experiences.
  • Advocate for racial equality and social justice.

Looking at the Poems Through the Lens of History:

• “Incident” by Countee Cullen: This poem explores the experience of racial prejudice from a young boy’s perspective. The speaker encounters a white woman who recoils from his touch, highlighting the ingrained racism faced by African Americans.
• “If We Must Die” by Claude McKay: This poem takes a more militant stance. It speaks of the frustration and anger felt by African Americans facing oppression. The speaker expresses a willingness to fight back against injustice if necessary.

Conclusion:

Both poems use powerful imagery and language to capture the complex realities of being Black in America during the Harlem Renaissance. They reflect the social and racial climate of the time, with “Incident” portraying the sting of prejudice and “If We Must Die” expressing the growing sense of resistance. Understanding this historical context allows for a deeper appreciatio