What did the term "New Negro" symbolize in Harlem Renaissance literature and thought?

The term "New Negro" symbolized a movement for racial pride and equality during the Harlem Renaissance, which spanned the 1920s and 1930s. This cultural, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem emphasized the empowerment of African Americans and sought to redefine their identity and place in American society. The "New Negro" concept represented a shift in consciousness, encouraging African Americans to embrace their heritage, articulate their experiences, and assert their rights and dignity in the face of racial discrimination.

Prominent figures of the Harlem Renaissance, such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Claude McKay, contributed to this movement through their literature, art, and activism, highlighting themes of pride, resilience, and equality. This new sense of identity was pivotal in promoting civil rights and challenging the entrenched stereotypes and prejudices of the time, ultimately laying the groundwork for future civil rights movements. The notion of the "New Negro" served as a powerful affirmation of black culture and an intellectual response to the challenges faced by African Americans in the early 20th century.