Paul Laurence Dunbar (June 27, 1872 – February 9, 1906) was a seminal African American poet, novelist, and playwright of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Dayton, Ohio to parents who were both former slaves, Dunbar was a key figure in African American literature, utilizing both dialect and standard English to convey the depth and complexity of Black life in America. His work often focuses on the difficulties faced by African Americans in post-Civil War society. A prolific writer, Dunbar published numerous collections of poetry, including 'Lyrics of Lowly Life' (1896), which gained him national fame and the patronage of well-known figures like Frederick Douglass. 'The Sport of the Gods' (1902) is among his novels that offer a poignant examination of racial injustices and the African American experience at the turn of the century. His literary style embodies a blend of irony, humor, and realism, and despite his short life, his contributions to American literature were profound, influencing later generations of Black writers. Sadly, his career was cut short by tuberculosis, which led to his premature death at the age of 33. Yet, Dunbar's legacy lives on, his work continuing to be celebrated for its pioneering portrayal of Black life in American literature.