August Wilson (1945-2005) was an American playwright, best known for his series of ten plays, collectively called The American Century Cycle, which chronicles the African-American experience over the course of the twentieth century. It comprises Gem of the Ocean, Joe Turner's Come and Gone, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, The Piano Lesson, Seven Guitars, Fences, Two Trains Running, Jitney, King Hedley II and Radio Golf.
He won numerous prizes and honours, including two Pulitzer Prizes and the Humanities Medal from the President of the United States.
