If Black English Isn't a Language, Then Tell Me, What Is? | Key Figure Analysis

James Baldwin

James Baldwin (1924–87) began his life in poverty in Harlem, New York. He started publishing his writing in his high school magazine. Baldwin went on to become a critically acclaimed author of fiction and nonfiction books, essays, and plays. He spent many years living abroad but never stopped advocating improved race relations in the United States. Baldwin was able to spend time in France, but he still felt deeply for black people in the United States who were still subject to an unjust system. He used his writing to call attention to the injustice.