The Life of James Baldwin James Baldwin says: “I knew I was black, of course, but I also knew I was intelligent. I didn't know how I was going to use my mind, or even if I could, but it was the only thing I had to use” (PBS 2). This James Baldwin quote from a PBS article sums up the challenge he faced because he was black. Through his personal life, work and achievements, James Baldwin is considered one of the most prestigious writers in American literature. Growing up as an African American in the early 1900s, James Baldwin didn't have it easy. James Baldwin was born in New York on August 2, 1924 (Magill 101). Baldwin's father made his childhood more difficult than it already was. His father constantly criticized and teased “James Baldwin's turbulent and passionate life informs all his writings” (Magill 104). Baldwin was a well-defined writer. “In his essays he constantly depicts and expands on his personal experiences” (Magill 104). Baldwin's ability to write with such passion and drama is what makes him truly gifted. “In his fiction, he drew on autobiographical events, issues, and characters, constructing dramatic situations that closely reflected his intimate experience of the world” (Magill 104). Baldwin's talent for carefully choosing words and connecting images to emotions helped him achieve maximum effect in his work (Magill 104). His work was fascinating. “James Baldwin wrote to understand the trials of the past and to articulate principles for the future” (Magill 104). Baldwin's writing style is what made him so famous. “In 1963, Attorney General Robert Kennedy invited Baldwin and other black figures to discuss the nation's racial situation” (Magill 103). The meeting only reminded Baldwin of how far the nation still had to go (Magill 103). Baldwin continued to write. “During the last 10 years of his life, he produced a number of important works of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry” (PBS 4). For a time he taught and lectured, but soon it became increasingly difficult for him to write (Magill 103). The years of drinking, smoking, and traveling finally took their toll (Magill 103). “In 1987, James developed stomach cancer, which took his life at the age of 63 on December 1, at his home in France” (PBS 4). Being a successful black man in the 1900s shows how intelligent and gifted James Baldwin is.