USA HISTORY

When the Harlem Renaissance began, just after World War I, the economy was very strong. People were more liberal and spent more time and money on the arts and entertainment. Though racism was still widespread, art, music and literature created by African-Americans became popular among black and white communities alike. For the very first time in the US, black artists and intellectuals were able to flourish. Many made a living from their work and were acknowledged for their contributions.Some say the Harlem Renaissance officially began with the 1921 musical Shuffle Along. The acclaimed show was written, produced and performed entirely by African-Americans. Many of the actors were veterans of the Vaudeville scene. Shuffle Along brought jazz to Broadway and kickstarted the careers of many of its stars. It also introduced white New Yorkers to black music and culture. The show was so popular that it was said to have caused traffic jams every night outside the theater.The Harlem Renaissance was bolstered by