Lorraine Hansberry's work was profoundly shaped by the historical context of the Civil Rights Movement and the struggles of African Americans. Her experiences in a segregated society influenced her themes of identity, racial tension, and social justice in her landmark play, A Raisin in the Sun. Hansberry's advocacy for equality permeated her writing, as she drew from personal and collective experiences to challenge societal norms. This historical backdrop informed her voice and vision, making her a pivotal figure in American theatre.