James Baldwin

James Baldwin (1924–1987) was an American novelist, essayist, and playwright whose work examined race, identity, and power in the United States. Born in Harlem, New York City, he began publishing essays and fiction in the 1940s and later lived for long periods in France. His debut novel, *Go Tell It on the Mountain* (1953), drew on his upbringing and religious experience, while *The Fire Next Time* (1963) made him a leading voice in national debates on civil rights. Baldwin also wrote *Giovanni’s Room* (1956) and the play *Blues for Mister Charlie* (1964).