Countee Cullen was a prominent African American poet during the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that took place in the 1920s and 1930s in Harlem, New York. Cullen was born on May 30, 1903, in Louisville, Kentucky, and was raised in Harlem. He was known for his lyrical poetry that often explored themes of race, identity, and religion.

Cullen was one of the leading figures of the Harlem Renaissance and his work was greatly admired for its technical skill and emotional depth. Some of his most famous poems include "Yet Do I Marvel," "Incident," and "Heritage." Cullen was also a playwright and novelist, and he published several works throughout his career.

Despite facing discrimination and prejudice, Cullen's work received critical acclaim and helped shape conversations around race and identity in America. He was a pioneering figure in African American literature and continues to be remembered as one of the most important poets of the Harlem Renaissance. Cullen passed away on January 9, 1946, leaving behind a powerful legacy in Black history.