Who Is Langston Hughes? Age, Biography and Wiki
Langston Hughes was born on February 1, 1901, in Joplin, Missouri. He passed away on May 22, 1967, but his impact on literature and social change resonates today. Hughes was a central figure of the Harlem Renaissance, advocating for African American culture and identity through his poetry, essays, and plays. His work often highlighted the struggles of the Black community, making him a symbol of resilience and hope.
By 2025, Hughes would have celebrated his 124th birthday, if he were still alive. His legacy continues to influence writers, activists, and artists around the world.
| Occupation | Playwright |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 1, 1901 |
| Age | 66 Years |
| Birth Place | Joplin, Missouri, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 22 May, 1967 |
| Died Place | New York City, U.S. |
Popularity
Langston Hughes's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While definitive statistics on Langston Hughes's height and weight are scarce, it’s estimated that he stood at around 5 feet 10 inches tall. Hughes had a robust build, reflective of his complex and passionate personality. The artistic aura he embodied was often mirrored in his commanding presence during public readings and lectures.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Langston Hughes was known for his intensely private nature regarding his personal relationships. Although he never married, there are reports and speculations about his dating life. Hughes was associated with various relationships throughout his life, but he was particularly close to other artists and intellectuals, often sharing a deep emotional connection with them. As of 2025, there are no verified records of a boyfriend or partner, as Hughes has remained a celebrated figure in literary history rather than a modern celebrity with publicized romances.
Ten years later, in 1869, the widow Mary Patterson Leary married again, into the elite, politically active Langston family. Her second husband was Charles Henry Langston, of African-American, Euro-American and Native American ancestry. He and his younger brother, John Mercer Langston, worked for the abolitionist cause and helped lead the Ohio Anti-Slavery Society in 1858.
Net Worth and Salary
Langston Hughes was not only a prolific writer but also a savvy individual who garnered income from his diverse art forms. His works, ranging from poems to essays and plays, amassed significant acclaim and monetary success during his lifetime. Although exact figures of his net worth are not available, it’s estimated that Hughes's earnings were substantial, especially through the sale of books, royalties, and speaking engagements. Today, his estate continues to generate income through books, adaptations, and educational programs affiliated with his work.
Career, Business and Investments
Langston Hughes had a multifaceted career that spanned several decades. He made significant contributions to literature, with notable works like "The Weary Blues," "Montage of a Dream Deferred," and "The Big Sea." Hughes was also involved in theater, and his contributions to the Harlem Renaissance positioned him as one of the leading voices in American literature.
In addition to writing, Hughes explored various forms of expression, including jazz and folk music, integrating them into his literary works. While he did not engage in modern business ventures or investments, his work paved the way for future generations of artists and writers, establishing cultural platforms that continue to thrive today.
Growing up in the Midwest, Hughes became a prolific writer at an early age. He moved to New York City as a young man, where he made his career. He studied at Columbia University in New York City.
Although he dropped out, he gained notice from New York publishers, first in The Crisis magazine and then from book publishers, subsequently becoming known in the Harlem creative community. His first poetry collection, The Weary Blues, was published in 1926. Hughes eventually graduated from Lincoln University.
Social Network
Langston Hughes had a significant presence in the literary and art community, collaborating with many prominent figures of his time, including Zora Neale Hurston and Claude McKay. Although Hughes did not partake in social media (given his era), he has a celebratory legacy in contemporary platforms. Many literary enthusiasts actively share his quotes, poems, and insights on social networks alike, keeping his spirit and message alive.
In addition to poetry, Hughes wrote plays and published short story collections, novels, and several nonfiction works. From 1942 to 1962, as the civil rights movement gained traction, Hughes wrote an in-depth weekly opinion column in a leading black newspaper, The Chicago Defender.
Education
Hughes pursued education at several institutions. He attended Columbia University, where he studied engineering and literature. Despite leaving the university after one year, his time in New York City exposed him to the vibrant Harlem art scene, influencing his writing profoundly. Hughes's education was enriched by the cultural milieu surrounding him, and he later became an educator himself, sharing his knowledge and passion for African American literature and poetry.
His writing experiments began when he was young. While in grammar school in Lincoln, Hughes was elected class poet. He stated that in retrospect he thought it was because of the stereotype about African Americans having rhythm.
