August Wilson was born on April 27, 1945, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Wilson was a critically acclaimed playwright whose work touched on the African-American experience in 20th century America. His work garnered him two Pulitzer Prizes for drama, and continues to be performed in many theatres across the nation. Wilson was famously known for his 10-play cycle, coined “The Pittsburgh Cycle,” which were stories set in each decade of the 20th century. Here’s an overview of each on the plays plotlines.

"Gem of the Ocean"(1900s): First premiered in 2003. In this play, Citizen Barlow is guided on a spiritual journey by the character of Aunt Ester, a 285-year old woman, who is a frequent character in Wilson’s cycle of plays.

"Joe Turner’s Come and Gone"(1910s): Premiering in 1988, the play’s central theme is that of racism and discrimination amongst African American slaves who are now free.

"Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom"(1920s): Paying homage to the jazz age of America, this story follows Ma Rainey, who longs to record an album but whose wishes are jeopardized by ambitions and decisions of her band members. First performed in 1984.

"The Piano Lesson"(1930s): Staged in 1990, "The Piano Lesson" follows the bitter relationship of Boy Willie and his sister, Berniece, who both clash over the decision to sell or keep a piano that has traced the family’s ancestry back to the days of slavery.

"Seven Guitars"(1940s): This story opens with the funeral of one of the seven characters, and throughout the play, events are shown which leads to the death; this production premiered in 1995.

"Fences" (1950s): One of Wilson’s most critically acclaimed works, "Fences" covers the life of Troy Maxson, a failed baseball player who wants more out of life, and whose actions reflect on his family, wife Rose and son Cory. First performed in 1987.

"Two Trains Running"(1960s): This play takes a look at the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, and details the uncertain future promised to African-Americans.

"Jitney"(1970s): This play follows the lives of jitneys, or unlicensed cab drivers, who drive cabs in the Hill District of Pittsburgh, during a time when actual cabs would not go there.

"King Hedley II"(1980s): An ex-con tries to make a new life for himself by selling refrigerators, hoping to buy a video store.

"Radio Golf"(1990s): In Wilson’s final play, premiering in 2005 (the year of his sudden passing), this story focuses on two men who try to redevelop the area of Pittsburgh.