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Exploring the African American Influence in Paris: A Deep Dive into Art, Literature, and History

Writer's picture: Dr. RaquelDr. Raquel

Paris, often referred to as the "City of Light," has long been a beacon for artists, writers, and intellectuals from around the world. Among these expatriates, African Americans have left an undeniable mark on the city’s cultural landscape. From the Jazz Age to the Civil Rights Movement, Paris has served as a sanctuary and a source of inspiration for many African American creatives and thinkers. Today we will delve into the rich history of African American influence in Paris and highlight their significant contributions to art, literature, and culture.


Early Expats: The African American presence in Paris began to take shape in the early 20th century. Faced with severe racial discrimination and segregation in the United States, many African Americans sought refuge in Paris, where they found a more accepting and open-minded society.

  • Henry Ossawa Tanner:

  • One of the first prominent African American artists in Paris, Tanner moved to the city in 1891. He achieved critical acclaim for his religious and genre paintings, and his work was exhibited at the prestigious Salon.

  • Josephine Baker:

  • Arriving in Paris in 1925, Josephine Baker quickly became a sensation. Her performances at the Folies Bergère and her role in introducing jazz to European audiences made her an international star. Beyond her entertainment career, Baker was also a devoted civil rights activist.


The Harlem Renaissance in Paris: The 1920s and 1930s saw a wave of African American writers, musicians, and artists flocking to Paris, drawn by the city’s vibrant cultural scene and its reputation as a haven for creative freedom.

  • Langston Hughes and Claude McKay:

  • Both Hughes and McKay spent time in Paris during the Harlem Renaissance. Hughes wrote poetry and developed his literary voice, while McKay penned his novel "Banjo," which captures the lives of Black seamen and dockworkers in Marseille.

  • James Baldwin:

  • Baldwin arrived in Paris in 1948, seeking an escape from the racial tensions of America. In Paris, he wrote his seminal works, including "Go Tell It on the Mountain" and "Notes of a Native Son." Baldwin's reflections on race, identity, and belonging were deeply influenced by his experiences in Paris.


Post-War Paris: The post-World War II era saw another influx of African American expatriates who found Paris to be a nurturing environment for their creative and intellectual pursuits.

  • Richard Wright:

  • Wright, author of "Native Son" and "Black Boy," moved to Paris in 1946. His Parisian years were productive, and he wrote several important works, including "The Outsider." Wright's essays and novels continued to explore themes of race and social justice.

  • Chester Himes:

  • Known for his detective novels set in Harlem, Himes relocated to Paris in the 1950s. His work gained popularity in Europe, and he enjoyed a successful literary career, free from the racial prejudices he faced in the U.S.


Cultural Landmarks: Several locations in Paris hold historical significance for the African American community and are worth visiting to understand their cultural contributions.

  • Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots:

  • These iconic cafes in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood were popular meeting spots for African American intellectuals and artists. They provided a space for lively discussions and networking.

  • Montmartre District:

  • Montmartre was a hub for jazz musicians and artists. The district's clubs and cabarets, such as Bricktop's, founded by Ada "Bricktop" Smith, were central to the jazz scene and African American cultural life in Paris.

  • Musée Dapper:

  • This museum is dedicated to African art and culture. It hosts exhibitions and events that celebrate the contributions of the African diaspora, including African American artists and thinkers.


The African American influence in Paris is a testament to the city’s role as a safer space for those seeking freedom and creative expression. From the early 20th century to the present day, African American expatriates have enriched Paris’s cultural and intellectual life. Their legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the transformative power of art and the importance of cross-cultural exchanges. As we explore this rich history, we gain a deeper appreciation for the profound connections that bind the African American experience to the heart of Paris.


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