Prior to the 1920s, there was little African American representation in mainstream art and culture. Starting around 1915, thousands of African Americans moved north to escape the segregation and low paying jobs of the south. Many African Americans moved to the previously white Manhattan neighborhood Harlem. This population shift led to a black pride movement headed by authors and artists of the 20s, and eventually the artistic, intellectual and social movement known as the Harlem Renaissance. It was in this context that author Alain Locke was able to become the most influential figure of the Harlem Renaissance, driving the movement through his promotion of African American art and pride in African culture. In doing so, he broke social, political and artistic barriers for future generations of African Americans.