The American Folk Revival was a cultural movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily during the 1940s to the 1960s. It sought to revive traditional American folk music and celebrate the stories and experiences of everyday people. Artists like Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger played significant roles in popularizing folk music, often using it as a means of social and political expression. This revival was marked by the rise of folk festivals and the emergence of new artists, such as Bob Dylan and Joan Baez, who blended traditional styles with contemporary themes. The movement not only influenced music but also contributed to broader cultural shifts, including the Civil Rights Movement and anti-war protests.