James Baldwin (1924–1987) was a celebrated African–American author of novels, essays, poetry and plays. His emotionally powerful and highly reflective books made Baldwin a prominent voice in the civil rights movement where he was well–known for giving impactful and eloquent speeches. Baldwin spent much of his writing career abroad, which allowed him to gather perspective on racial, sexual and social tensions inherent in American society. His most famous works include the semi–autobiographical novel Go Tell It on the Mountain and his book of essays Notes of a Native Son. Baldwin's other popular books include The Fire Next Time, Another Country and Giovanni's Room. His thought–provoking quote, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced" first appeared in his essay for The New York Times.