Chapter 8

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One day, Langston was told he had cancer. On May 22, 1967, Langston Hughes died. He was 65 years old. His ashes are in Harlem. He is still remembered today for his beautiful poems. He is also remembered for helping black people see themselves as a beautiful community. With Langston Hughes’ help, the term “African-American” is used with pride.

The land wants me to come back

To a handful of dust in autumn,

To a raindrop

In the palm of my hand

In spring.

– from “Dust Bowl”