Who Is Amiri Baraka? Age, Biography and Wiki
Amiri Baraka, born on October 7, 1934, in Newark, New Jersey, was an influential African-American writer, activist, and cultural critic. He passed away in 2014, leaving a significant impact on literature, music, and social justice. Celebrated for his role in the Black Arts Movement, Baraka's distinct voice contributed to the conversations surrounding race, identity, and the African-American experience, instigating change and reflection throughout his career. Having authored various plays, poems, and essays, Baraka's legacy continues to inspire new generations.
| Occupation | Civil Rights Activists |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 7, 1934 |
| Age | 79 Years |
| Birth Place | Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | Jersey |
| Date of death | 9 January, 2014 |
| Died Place | Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
Popularity
Amiri Baraka's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific measurements might not be publicly detailed, Amiri Baraka was known for his commanding presence and robust demeanor that often reflected his passionate personality and intellectual authority. His stature and posture were symbolic of his role as a leader and a voice for the underrepresented.
"Black Art" quickly became the major poetic manifesto of the Black Arts Literary Movement, and in it, Jones declaimed, "we want poems that kill", which coincided with the rise of armed self-defense and slogans such as "Arm yourself or harm yourself" that promoted confrontation with the white power structure. Rather than use poetry as an escapist mechanism, Baraka saw poetry as a weapon of action.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Amiri Baraka was married three times in his lifetime. His most notable relationship was with poet Amina Baraka, with whom he shared a deep bond both personally and artistically. They collaborated on various projects, and Amina often supported Amiri throughout his career. The couple had a family together, nurturing a creative environment for their children. However, as of 2025, Baraka’s exact relationship status remains unapplicable since he passed away in 2014.
His father Coyt Leroy Jones worked as a postal supervisor and lift operator. His mother Anna Lois (née Russ) was a social worker. Jazz interested Baraka as a child. He wanted to emulate Miles Davis: "I wanted to look like that too — that green shirt and rolled up sleeves on Milestones ... always wanted to look like that.
And be able to play "On Green Dolphin Street" or "Autumn Leaves" ... That gorgeous chilling sweet sound.
That's the music you wanted playing when you was coming into a joint, or just looking up at the sky with your baby by your side, that mixture of America and them changes, them blue African magic chants." The influence of jazz can be seen throughout his work later in life.
Net Worth and Salary
Though specific details about Amiri Baraka's earnings during his lifetime have not been widely disclosed, it is estimated that his net worth at the time of his death was around $3 million. This wealth was accumulated through a fruitful career comprising of writing, teaching, and various artistic endeavors, ensuring that he left a legacy that would benefit future generations of artists and intellectuals.
Career, Business and Investments
Amiri Baraka’s career spanned over five decades, during which he wrote numerous plays, poetry collections, and essays. Some of his notable works include Dutchman, The System of Dante’s Hell, and Black Magic. Baraka's writings often addressed themes of race, politics, and identity, making him a key figure in the Black Arts Movement. In addition to writing, Baraka was a prominent activist; he fought for civil rights and social justice, making significant contributions to various social movements. He also taught at universities, influencing countless students and emerging writers.
Baraka's career spanned nearly 52 years, and his themes range from Black liberation to White racism. His notable poems include "The Music: Reflection on Jazz and Blues", "The Book of Monk", and "New Music, New Poetry", works that draw on topics from the worlds of society, music, and literature.
Social Network
Although Amiri Baraka passed away in 2014, his legacy continues to resonate on various social platforms. Many literary organizations, universities, and activists share his work and thoughts, ensuring that his voice is still echoing through discussions about literature and social justice. Social media platforms, especially Twitter and Instagram, often feature tributes and quotes from Baraka, helping new audiences connect with his powerful messages.
In 1954, he joined the United States Air Force as a gunner, reaching the rank of sergeant. This was a decision he would come to regret. He once explained: "I found out what it was like to be under the direct jurisdiction of people who hated black people.
I had never known that directly." This experience was yet another that influenced Baraka's later work. His commanding officer received an anonymous letter accusing Baraka of being a communist.
This led to the discovery of Soviet writings in Baraka's possession, his reassignment to gardening duty, and subsequently a dishonorable discharge for violation of his oath of duty. He later described his experience in the military as "racist, degrading, and intellectually paralyzing".
While he was stationed in Puerto Rico, he worked at the base library, which allowed him ample reading time, and it was here that, inspired by Beat poets back in the mainland US, he began to write poetry.
Education
Baraka's educational journey began at Howard University, where he was involved in various literary and political activities. He later transferred to New York University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. His education and artistic experiences influenced his writing style and thematic choices, contributing to his reputation as a powerful voice in American literature.
Amiri Baraka (born Everett Leroy Jones; October 7, 1934 – January 9, 2014), previously known as LeRoi Jones and Imamu Amear Baraka, was an American writer of poetry, drama, fiction, essays, and music criticism.
He was the author of numerous books of poetry and taught at several universities, including the University at Buffalo and Stony Brook University. He received the PEN/Beyond Margins Award in 2008 for Tales of the Out and the Gone.
Baraka's plays, poetry, and essays have been described by scholars as constituting defining texts for African-American culture.
