One of the most credited authors who inspired the Black Power movement is James Baldwin. His writings addressed the complexities of race, identity, and the struggle for civil rights in America. Baldwin's works, including essays such as "The Fire Next Time," were influential in shaping the discourse around race relations and empowerment during the 1960s.
Another significant figure is Amiri Baraka (formerly known as LeRoi Jones), whose poetry, plays, and essays emphasized the need for cultural and political liberation. His work helped articulate the frustrations and aspirations of many African Americans at the time.
While Baldwin and Baraka are prominent, it's essential to recognize that the Black Power movement was influenced by a broad range of thinkers and writers, including figures like Angela Davis, Malcolm X, and Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, each contributing uniquely to the movement's ideology and goals.