The Harlem Renaissance
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/collections/145704/an-introduction-to-the-harlem-renaissance
An essay by the Poetry Foundation providing an introduction to the Harlem Renaissance literary movement, with links to poetry produced during the movement.
Claude McKay: 1890 - 1948
https://www.africanamericanpoetry.org/claude-mckay
A brief biography of Claude McKay.
Harlem Renaissance
https://www.nga.gov/learn/teachers/lessons-activities/uncovering-america/harlem-renaissance.html
The Harlem Renaissance saw a flourishing not only of poetry, but of music and visual art. This website provides an introduction to the visual art of the period and a collection of sample works.
When Black Writers Were Public Enemy No. 1
https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2015/04/fbi-black-writers-117512/
As the publication history of "The White House" illustrates, the racism that McKay describes in the poem was exemplified when he was targeted by the FBI for his work. This website discusses the FBI's surveillance and targeting of McKay.
Poems of Protest, Resistance, and Empowerment
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/collections/101581/poems-of-protest-resistance-and-empowerment
A collection of poems, including two by McKay, that explore themes of resistance to oppression.