Claude McKay was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that emerged in the early 20th century and celebrated African American art, music, and literature. McKay was a Jamaican writer and poet who is best known for his groundbreaking work in poetry, fiction, and political activism.

McKay's poetry often explored themes of racial identity, social injustice, and the struggles of the African diaspora. One of his most famous poems, "If We Must Die," was written in response to the racial violence and discrimination faced by African Americans during the early 1900s. The poem is a powerful call for resistance and dignity in the face of oppression.

In addition to his poetry, McKay also wrote several novels that addressed themes of race and society, including "Home to Harlem" and "Banjo." These works were among the first to depict the experiences of working-class African Americans in literature, and they had a significant impact on the portrayal of race and class in American literature.

McKay was also a prominent political activist and played a key role in the Pan-African movement, which advocated for the unity and liberation of people of African descent worldwide. His writings and speeches on racial equality and social justice continue to inspire activists and writers to this day.

Overall, Claude McKay was a pioneering figure in Black history whose work continues to resonate with readers and scholars around the world.