Richard Wright was one of the most prominent African-American writers of the twentieth century. His works, such as "Native Son" and "Black Boy," explore the racial problems of his time and the psychological impact of being black in America. Wright was a contemporary of Baldwin and shared similar concerns about race and equality.
* Lorraine Hansberry
Lorraine Hansberry was a playwright and activist. Her most famous work, "A Raisin in the Sun," was the first play written by an African-American woman to be produced on Broadway. Hansberry and Baldwin were friends and shared similar beliefs about the importance of art and activism for social change.
* Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou was a poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. Her works, such as "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" and "The Heart of a Woman," explore the resilience and strength of African-American women. Angelou was a contemporary of Baldwin and a close friend.
* Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes was a poet, playwright, and activist. His works, such as "The Weary Blues" and "Montage of a Dream Deferred," celebrate African-American culture and express the frustrations and aspirations of black people in America. Hughes was a contemporary of Baldwin and a great influence on his writing.
* Ralph Ellison
Ralph Ellison was a novelist and essayist. His most famous work, "Invisible Man," explores the racial identity of African-Americans in a predominantly white society. Ellison was a contemporary of Baldwin and engaged in similar literary themes.