World War I had just ended, and people, both black and white, were experiencing new feelings and attitudes and were interested in trying new things.
Black migrants left the South to start new lives in the North, where they saw black organizations, businesses, and publications growing everywhere.
African Americans were beginning to look at themselves and celebrate their differences, instead of merely copying white ways. There was a growing interest in “the Negro”: People, black and white, were curious about black music (jazz, spirituals), stories, and culture.
Feelings of racial pride were emerging, and the time was right for new voices to be heard. The arts began to reflect these changes.
