Dunbar, Paul Laurence: - Paul Laurence Dunbar was an influential African American poet, novelist, and playwright, born in 1872 in Dayton, Ohio. He was one of the first Black writers to gain national prominence in the United States. Dunbar's work often explored themes of race, identity, and the struggles faced by African Americans, blending humor and pathos in his writings. He is best known for his poems, which often used dialect to reflect the experiences of Black Americans. His most famous works include ""We Wear the Mask"" and ""Sympathy,"" the latter inspiring the well-known phrase ""I know why the caged bird sings."" In addition to poetry, Dunbar wrote novels, such as ""The Sport of the Gods,"" which addresses the challenges of urban life for African Americans. Despite facing significant racial prejudice, Dunbar's literary contributions have had a lasting impact on American literature, influencing future generations of writers. He passed away in 1906, leaving behind a rich legacy.