Claude McKay was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a flourishing period of artistic and intellectual achievements by African American writers, poets, and artists in the 1920s. McKay was a Jamaican writer and poet known for his contributions to the Harlem Renaissance and his exploration of themes related to race, identity, and social justice.

McKay's works often examined the experiences of Black people in America and addressed issues such as racism, discrimination, and colonialism. Some of his most famous works include the poems "If We Must Die" and "America," both of which address the complexities of being Black in a racially segregated society.

In addition to his poetry, McKay also wrote novels, including "Home to Harlem" and "Banjo," which explored the lives of Black migrants in urban centers like Harlem. His writing style was known for its lyricism, passion, and keen observations of the human condition.

McKay's works continue to be celebrated for their powerful and poignant exploration of race, identity, and the Black experience in America. His contribution to Black history and literature remains significant and his legacy lives on as a pioneer of African American literature.