Claude McKay was a Jamaican-American writer and poet who played a significant role in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement centered in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City during the 1920s and 1930s. McKay is best known for his works of poetry and prose that explored themes of race, identity, and social injustice.

Born in 1889 in Jamaica, McKay immigrated to the United States in 1912, where he settled in Harlem and became actively involved in the flourishing literary and artistic scene of the time. He quickly gained recognition for his poetry, which often addressed issues of racial discrimination and the African-American experience.

One of McKay's most famous works is the poem "If We Must Die," which was written in response to the widespread racial violence and oppression faced by African Americans during the early 20th century. The poem is a powerful call to resistance and self-defense in the face of injustice.

McKay also wrote several novels, including "Home to Harlem" (1928), which was one of the first novels by a Black author to become a bestseller in the United States. His writings challenged stereotypes and gave voice to the experiences of African Americans and other marginalized communities.

Throughout his career, McKay was a prominent figure in the fight for racial equality and social justice. His works continue to be studied and celebrated for their enduring relevance and powerful message.