Countee Cullen (1903-1946) was an African-American poet and writer who was a leading figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that took place in the 1920s and 1930s. He was born in New York City and was raised in an orphanage after the death of his mother. Despite facing financial difficulties and racial discrimination, Cullen was a talented student and went on to study at New York University and Harvard University.

Cullen’s poetry is characterized by its formal structure, its use of classical imagery and allusions, and its exploration of themes of racial identity, love, and loss. He published his first book of poetry, “Color,” in 1925 and went on to publish several more collections throughout his career. He was widely recognized as one of the most talented poets of his generation and was celebrated for his ability to express complex ideas and emotions with elegance and simplicity.

In addition to his work as a poet, Cullen was also an advocate for civil rights and an active participant in the cultural and intellectual life of Harlem. He was involved in several organizations that sought to promote black culture and arts, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the National Urban League. He was also a teacher and a mentor to many young writers and artists, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of writers and artists.

Countee Cullen was a pioneering figure in the world of African-American literature and remains one of the most celebrated poets of the Harlem Renaissance. His contributions to the world of poetry and his commitment to promoting black culture and civil rights continue to inspire and inform new generations of writers and activists.