The significance of the Harlem Renaissance for figures like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston lies in its role as a cultural awakening for African Americans. This period celebrated African American culture, art, and literature, encouraging these artists to explore themes of identity, heritage, and social issues. Hughes’ poetry highlighted the richness of African American experiences, while Hurston’s novels delved into cultural folklore and the lives of Black women. Their contributions during this era challenged societal norms, fostered a sense of pride, and laid the groundwork for future movements advocating for racial equality and civil rights.