Paul Laurence Dunbar

Paul Laurence Dunbar was one of the first African American poets to achieve international acclaim. Born in 1872, the Dayton, Ohio native was also a prolific author of short stories, novels, librettos, essays and articles. Dunbar became a major inspiration for Harlem Renaissance authors like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston. His influence continues today through the writings of famous African American writers like Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison, both of whom credit Dunbar as an inspiration. He died in Dayton on February 9, 1906 at the age of 33. The film incorrectly states that he died on February 6. The Paul Laurence Dunbar State Memorial House is open for tours Friday through Sunday. See www.daytonhistory.org for more information.