Harlem has played a significant role in Black history, particularly during the 20th century's Harlem Renaissance. The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in the neighborhood during the 1920s. It was a time when African American artistic expression, literature, music, and intellectualism flourished, contributing to a powerful redefinition of Black identity and culture.

During this period, Harlem became a hub for Black artists, writers, musicians, and intellectuals who sought to challenge racial stereotypes and celebrate Black culture. Prominent figures such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong were central to the cultural movement that emerged from Harlem.

The neighborhood's vibrant nightlife scene, including the legendary Cotton Club and Apollo Theater, showcased the talents of Black performers and helped launch the careers of many African American entertainers.

Harlem also played a crucial role in the civil rights movement, serving as a gathering place for activists and intellectuals who advocated for racial equality and social justice. Leaders such as Malcolm X and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. were key figures in the struggle for civil rights and empowerment of the Black community.

Today, Harlem remains an important cultural and historical landmark in Black history, symbolizing the resilience, creativity, and strength of the African American community.