Claude McKay was a Jamaican poet and writer who was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural and social movement that took place in Harlem, New York in the 1920s. McKay is known for his poetry which often explored themes of race, identity, and discrimination.

One of his most famous works is the poem "If We Must Die," which was written in response to the widespread racial violence and discrimination faced by African Americans during that time. The poem is a powerful call to resistance and unity in the face of oppression.

McKay also wrote novels and essays that delved into the complexities of race relations in America. His work helped to shape the discourse around race and identity during the Harlem Renaissance and continues to be studied and celebrated today.

Overall, Claude McKay was a trailblazing figure in Black history whose writing continues to resonate with readers and scholars alike.