"The New Negro" was a term popularized during the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s and 1930s. It referred to a new sense of racial pride, self-expression, and self-determination that emerged among African Americans during this era. The term was coined by Alain Locke, a pioneering scholar and intellectual, in his anthology titled "The New Negro," which showcased the cultural achievements of African Americans.

The New Negro movement sought to challenge stereotypes and portray African Americans in a more positive light, celebrating their contributions to art, literature, music, and intellectual thought. It emphasized the importance of cultural identity, political activism, and social progress. The Harlem Renaissance, with its flourishing of creativity and expression, is often seen as a key manifestation of the New Negro ethos.

Overall, the concept of the New Negro was a crucial part of the cultural and social transformation that took place within the African American community during the early 20th century, laying the groundwork for the civil rights movement and ongoing struggles for equality and justice.