Harlem is a large neighborhood in the New York City borough of Manhattan. It is also known under the name of <em>Black Mecca</em>. It is a major African American residential, cultural and businesses centre.
It was originally settled by the Dutch in 1658 and remained undeveloped territory for almost 200 years. It is named after the city of Haarlem in the Netherlands.
As New York's population grew, Harlem developed. Big urban progress was noted around 1880 when elevated railway lines were extended in that direction and many apartments buildings erected. Due to some unrealistic expectation many housing estates remained vacant and a major part of New York's black population were relocated there.
During 1920's, Harlem flourished with artistic and cultural expression and this period earned Harlem the distinction of <em>' Harlem Renaissance</em>'. Many artists wanted to show the black culture and its achievements to the world. They were proud of their African heritage. This outpouring of artistic work was unprecedented in the American -black community.
