The Black Arts Movement was a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, primarily in the United States. It aimed to create a distinct African American identity through literature, visual arts, and performance. Influenced by the civil rights movement, artists sought to express the experiences and struggles of Black people, promoting pride and self-determination. Key figures of the movement included poets like Amiri Baraka and Gwendolyn Brooks, who used their work to address social issues and celebrate Black culture. The movement also inspired the development of various art forms, including theater, music, and visual arts, fostering a sense of community and empowerment among African Americans.