lorraine hansberry (1930-1965)
Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois
Important Work: A Raisin in the Sun (1959)
Excerpt from her book: "What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?"
life & impact
Lorraine Hansberry was born in 1930 in Chicago, Illinois. She grew up in a time when Black families faced racism and discrimination. Her parents fought against segregation, and their struggles inspired her writing. She loved books and storytelling, and she became a playwright to share the experiences of Black families with the world.
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Hansberry became famous for her play A Raisin in the Sun, which was the first play by a Black woman to be performed on Broadway. The play tells the story of a Black family trying to move into a white neighborhood while chasing their dreams. It showed the struggles of racism, poverty, and hope in America. The play was a huge success and is still performed today because its message is so powerful.
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Even though Hansberry died young in 1965, her work continues to inspire people. She used her voice to fight for civil rights and equality. Many writers, activists, and artists look up to her as a leader who helped change the way Black stories were told. Her work reminds us to dream big and fight for what is right.