Ralph Ellison was a prominent writer and essayist in Black history. He is best known for his acclaimed novel "Invisible Man," which was published in 1952. The novel explores themes of race, identity, and the struggle for visibility in society. Ellison's work is considered a classic of American literature and an important contribution to the Black literary canon.

Ellison was born in 1913 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and grew up in a working-class African American family. He attended Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) in Alabama, where he was influenced by the writings of Booker T. Washington and developed an interest in literature and writing.

After moving to New York City in the 1930s, Ellison became involved in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that celebrated African American art, music, and literature. He worked as a writer and editor for various publications, including the Federal Writers' Project and the Negro Quarterly.

Ellison's career was marked by his commitment to exploring the Black experience in America and challenging stereotypes and misrepresentations of African Americans in literature. His writing is known for its lyrical prose, rich symbolism, and deep insights into the complexities of race and identity.

In addition to "Invisible Man," Ellison wrote essays, short stories, and literary criticism that continue to be studied and celebrated for their literary merit and social commentary. He was a trailblazer in the world of literature and remains a revered figure in Black history.