The influential African American leader during the Harlem Renaissance was Langston Hughes. A prolific writer, Hughes played a pivotal role in the cultural movement that celebrated African American cultural identity in the 1920s and 1930s. He is best known for his poetry, which often celebrated the joys and struggles of black life, using vernacular speech and jazz rhythms. Hughes advocated for the recognition of African American contributions to art and literature, emphasizing the importance of racial pride and social justice. His works, including "The Weary Blues" and "Montage of a Dream Deferred," continue to resonate, making him a foundational figure in American literature and civil rights advocacy.