Langston Hughes was an American poet, social activist, and playwright, who was one of the leading figures of the Harlem Renaissance. Born on February 1, 1902, in Joplin, Missouri, Hughes wrote poems, stories, and plays that celebrated the African American experience and culture. He used a distinctive style that combined jazz and blues influences with social commentary, making him one of the most important voices of the 20th century. Hughes’ works, including “The Weary Blues,” “Not Without Laughter,” and “Montage of a Dream Deferred,” earned him recognition as a powerful writer who captured the essence of black life in America. He died in 1967, leaving behind a legacy of literature that continues to inspire and influence generations.