Harlem is a historic neighborhood located in the northern section of

Manhattan, New York City. It has been a significant cultural and

social hub for African Americans since the early 20th century.
- Reasons people moved to the area:
One of the primary reasons for the influx of African Americans to
Harlem was the Great Migration. From the early 1900s to the
1970s, millions of African Americans left the racially segregated
South and sought better economic opportunities, improved living
conditions, and escape from discrimination. Harlem, with its
affordable housing and proximity to jobs, became a popular
destination for many migrants.
- Social organizations that helped create a community in
Harlem:
 National Urban League:
Founded in 1910, the National Urban League played a significant
role in fostering community development in Harlem. It focused on
improving housing, employment, and education opportunities for
African Americans and advocated for civil rights.
 Harlem YMCA:
The Harlem branch of the Young Men's Christian Association
(YMCA) was established in 1912. It provided various services,
including housing, recreational activities, job training, and
community programs, which helped strengthen the community
fabric.
 Abyssinian Baptist Church:
Founded in 1808, Abyssinian Baptist Church became a central
institution in Harlem, offering spiritual guidance and engaging in
community activism. It played a crucial role in supporting civil rights
and social justice initiatives.
- Cultural organizations that supported artists:
 The Harlem Renaissance:
During the 1920s and 1930s, Harlem experienced an artistic and
intellectual movement known as the Harlem Renaissance. This
period saw the rise of numerous cultural organizations that
supported artists and writers.
 The Cotton Club:
Located in Harlem, the Cotton Club was a famous nightclub that
showcased African American musicians and entertainers during the
Harlem Renaissance. It provided a platform for artists like Duke
Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Louis Armstrong.
 National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
(NAACP):
Although primarily a civil rights organization, the NAACP supported
the arts and played a crucial role in advocating for African American
artists and writers during the Harlem Renaissance.
 Harlem Artists Guild:
Founded in 1935, the Harlem Artists Guild aimed to provide support
and opportunities for African American visual artists. It organized
exhibitions, workshops, and other events to promote artistic
expression within the community.