American Literature

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An Enslaved Girl Brought America's Founding Father to His Knees — A Poem by Phillis Wheatley

A single poem written by an enslaved African girl moved George Washington, father of American independence. But even after gaining her freedom, a harsh new reality awaited her.

May 7, 2026

America's Greatest Poet — Not William Shakespeare, But Her: Remembering Emily Dickinson on Her Birthday

On April 23, 1830, Emily Dickinson — the most mysterious and original poet in American literary history — was born. Though she rarely stepped outside her home her entire life, her poetry continues to move readers around the world to this day.

Apr 23, 2026