Like Fences and The Piano Lesson before it, August Wilson's King Hedley II is a powerful and evocative look at the culture and tradition of 20th century African American life. Set in Pittsburgh in 1985, King Hedley II is an ex-convict at war with his past and his present. Wilson's play explores King's struggle with life, his relationships with his wife and family and the triumphs and trials of a community facing Reagan-era crime and unemployment.