Which era marked a significant evolution in the representation of African Americans in media and arts?

The Harlem Renaissance was a pivotal moment in the representation of African Americans in media and the arts, spanning the 1920s. This cultural movement was characterized by a flourishing of African American literature, music, visual arts, and performance, showcasing the richness of Black culture and addressing themes such as racial pride, social issues, and the Black experience in America. Figures like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington emerged during this era, creating works that highlighted the contributions and perspectives of African Americans.

In contrast to the other options, which, while significant in their own right, did not focus specifically on the artistic and cultural expression of African Americans. The Civil Rights Movement primarily focused on political activism and legal reform to combat racial segregation and discrimination. The Great Migration, while critically important for the demographic shifts of African Americans to northern cities, was more about the socio-economic changes rather than a specific cultural renaissance. The Enlightenment pertains to a much earlier period featuring broader philosophical themes and is not directly linked to African American representation. Thus, the Harlem Renaissance stands out as the era that truly revolutionized how African Americans were portrayed and expressed themselves in the arts and media.