Final answer:
The Harlem Renaissance began around 1918, post-WWI, marking a significant period of African American cultural expression in literature and the arts. It declined during the Great Depression but remains a celebrated era in American history.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Harlem Renaissance began at the end of World War I, around 1918. This cultural movement centered in Harlem, New York, and was a period of outstanding developments in African American art, music, and literature. It marked a significant transformation in African American culture and became known as the most influential movement for the community at the time. The Harlem Renaissance provided an avenue for African Americans to redefine their identity and express their experiences through various mediums such as literature, music, visual arts, and theatre, setting a new direction for all-American art. This era saw the emergence of prominent figures like Josephine Baker and Louis Armstrong while celebrating the heritage and achievements of African Americans.
The prosperity of the Harlem Renaissance came to an end around the start of the Great Depression, with the stock market crash in 1929. Its influence, however, continued to wane until about 1933. Despite the decline, the period remains a golden age for African American writers, musicians, and artists.