James Weldon Johnson

Definition

James Weldon Johnson was a prominent African American author, educator, lawyer, and civil rights activist, who played a significant role during the Harlem Renaissance. He is best known for his literary works that celebrated Black culture and identity, as well as for his advocacy for civil rights through his involvement with the NAACP.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Johnson served as the first executive secretary of the NAACP from 1920 to 1930, leading efforts to fight against racial discrimination and promote civil rights.
2. He was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, using his literary talents to uplift and inspire the Black community through his writing.
3. Johnson wrote the lyrics to 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' in 1900, which later became an anthem for the civil rights movement.
4. In addition to his activism and poetry, Johnson was also a successful novelist and wrote 'The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man,' which addressed themes of racial identity and social justice.
5. His work helped to bridge the gap between the literary and activist worlds during the Harlem Renaissance, making significant contributions to both fields.

Review Questions

• How did James Weldon Johnson's work influence the Harlem Renaissance and its emphasis on Black culture?
  • James Weldon Johnson's contributions to literature and activism had a profound impact on the Harlem Renaissance by highlighting Black culture and identity. His writings not only celebrated African American experiences but also called attention to the struggles against racial injustice. By serving as a prominent figure during this cultural movement, Johnson inspired other artists and writers to express their heritage and advocate for social change.
• Discuss Johnson's role within the NAACP and how it shaped his literary career during the Harlem Renaissance.
  • As the first executive secretary of the NAACP, James Weldon Johnson was instrumental in advancing civil rights efforts during a pivotal time in American history. His leadership in this organization allowed him to connect with other activists while informing his literary work with social issues. The overlap between his activism and writing made him a central figure in both spheres, emphasizing that literature could be a powerful tool for promoting social justice.
• Evaluate how James Weldon Johnson's 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' reflects the broader themes of hope and struggle within African American literature during the Harlem Renaissance.
  • James Weldon Johnson's 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' encapsulates themes of hope and resilience that resonate throughout African American literature of the Harlem Renaissance. The poem serves as both a celebration of Black heritage and a call to action against oppression. By intertwining these themes with musicality, Johnson created an anthem that not only unified voices during a time of struggle but also inspired future generations to continue fighting for equality, making it a lasting symbol of African American cultural expression.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, celebrating Black cultural expressions and producing influential works in literature, music, and art.

NAACP:

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, an organization founded in 1909 aimed at fighting for civil rights and social justice for African Americans.

Lift Every Voice and Sing: A poem written by James Weldon Johnson that was later set to music and is often referred to as the Black National Anthem, symbolizing the struggle for civil rights and hope for the future.