Gwendolyn Brooks was an influential American poet born in 1917 in Topeka, Kansas. She became the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1949 for her book "Annie Allen." Brooks's work often focused on the lives and struggles of African Americans, capturing their experiences with deep empathy and insight. Throughout her career, Brooks published numerous collections of poetry, including "The Bean Eaters" and "We Real Cool." She was known for her unique style, blending traditional forms with modern themes. Brooks's contributions to literature earned her many awards, and she remains a celebrated figure in American poetry.